The Beginnings

Since its inception in 1983 by wine writer Anthony Dias Blue, The Tasting Panel has evolved into one of the most prestigious entities in the American wine and spirits industry. It now encompasses a membership of well over 400 of the top wine and spirits journalists, major beverage industry veterans, important restaurateurs and sommeliers, and other key individuals in markets across America and in several foreign countries. The Panel serves the community as a useful sounding-board for new ideas and helps disseminate information on both the trade and consumer levels.

What We Do

The scope of the Panel itself has expanded significantly from its original function. Under the aegis of The Tasting Panel magazine, the Panel now organizes specialized press and trade tastings in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Miami, San Francisco, Boston, Washington, D.C., Las Vegas and other important markets, bringing the prestige of this nationally-recognized beverage industry publication to each event.

Tastings might be arranged to showcase a particular brand, or they may be focused around a specific wine region or spirits category, or designed to highlight an importer’s portfolio. Ample opportunity is provided for winemakers, spirits producers, or brand managers to present their products to Tasting Panel members and other invited guests in a convivial but professional atmosphere.


THE TASTING PANEL Magazine

In May of 2007, Anthony Dias Blue joined forces with longtime Patterson’s Beverage Journal editor-in-chief Meridith May to create a new publication, THE TASTING PANEL magazine.

THE TASTING PANEL magazine is the most widely circulated trade publication in the beverage industry, reaching an audience of thousands of key decision-makers every month and growing on an international scale. Manning the ship is renowned wine & spirits veteran Anthony Dias Blue as Editor-in-Chief. With his expertise, experience and esteem, Blue has his finger on the pulse of the beverage industry, making for one of the most informative and cutting edge publications focusing on beverages, the beverage trade and the people who make the industry tick.  Regular features include: "Blue Reviews," authoritative scores and reviews of wines and spirits; "Industry Spotlight," highlighting innovators and leaders; "Steven Spurrier's Letter from London," from the world-renowned British authority; "Brief Encounters" and "Brand Spotlight."

Related Activities

The San Francisco International Wine Competition, North America's largest wine judging event, as well as the equally important San Francisco World Spirits Competition, are both direct spin-offs of The Tasting Panel and are now produced conjointly with The Tasting Panel magazine. The magazine also produces a weekly radio program, “The Taste Buds,” which is broadcast on KABC radio in Los Angeles.

Our Mission

In its role as a leading forum for the American wine industry, The Tasting Panel and The Tasting Panel magazine continue to help shape opinion, influence beverage buying decision-makers, and enhance the joy of wine and spirits for the trade and the public.