There aren’t many “secret” public wine tastings in San Francisco, but for several years, the Golden Glass tasting was about as close as you could get to a “wine insiders” tasting. Historically under-promoted, and generally not well attended, this tasting was often considered by some of my wine friends to be the single best public wine tasting in San Francisco. It may well still be.

However, this year’s Golden Glass tasting is taking a different approach to its wines. In past years this event, which is a fundraiser for Slow Food USA, has focused almost exclusively on small Italian wine producers — apropos of the fact that Slow Food was founded in Italy.

This year, however, a significant number of the wineries in attendance are from elsewhere. A large contingent from New Zealand, and substantial groups from Spain and Australia will augment a sizable number of Italian producers from all over the country.

As one might expect, the food at this event is local, and quite good. From the Fatted Calf to Chez Panisse, this event will showcase some of the best artisan food purveyors in the Bay Area. I usually recommend to readers that they show up to public tastings with a full stomach, but this is one event that might invalidate that rule.

So if you love good food and good wine, and don’t have a lot going on the first weekend in June, I highly recommend checking out this tasting.

2008 Golden Glass Tasting
Sunday June 8th, 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
The Festival Pavilion, Fort Mason
San Francisco, CA 94123

Tickets are $50 for members of the public (discounted for members of Slow Food and other associated organizations) and should be purchased in advance online.

My usual tips for public tastings: get a good night’s sleep; drink lots of water; eat along the way; and if you want to enjoy yourself AND learn something….SPIT!