Known for her relaxed style of wine education, Cara Patricia's motto is "Drink for Yourself", a reminder that regardless of the trends and fads of the beverage world, what is most important is what makes YOU happy. Cara has been specializing in wine and beverage since 2008. In September 2015, Cara earned her Advanced Sommelier credentials from the Court of Master Sommeliers. In addition, Cara is WSET Advanced, as well as a Certified Wine Professional (CWP) and Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) through the Culinary Institute of America and Society of Wine Educators, respectively. She also holds certifications as California Wine Appellation Specialist from the San Francisco Wine School and French Wine Scholar from the French Wine Society.

Cara is now living in Napa, CA where she will be at the helm of the new DECANT NAPA, and is the face behind all of DECANT's social media and branding. When she’s not drinking 1er Cru Chablis or Cru Beaujolais, Cara is hanging out with her cat Siouxsie Sioux and playing records. @CaraPatriciaSF (she/they)

We're excited to announce Gillian Ballance, MS, as our new Partner in Education & Events. Gillian is a Master Sommelier with over 20 years of experience leading wine programs at top restaurants, hotels, and resorts across the U.S. She earned her Master Sommelier Diploma in 2012 and holds a Diploma in Wines & Spirits from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET). Currently, she serves as the National Education Manager at Treasury Wine Estates and is a member of both the James Beard Foundation Beverage Advisory Board and the Court of Master Sommeliers Board of Directors. Gillian is both a friend and mentor of Cara & Simi, and we're lucky to have her be a part of the next stage of DECANT's future! You'll see her mostly at DECANT Napa on the weekends, and at DECANT SF for classes! @gillianms (she/her)

Parker Story (he/him) brings nearly ten years of experience in fine wine to DECANTsf. Prior to joining our team, he worked as a sommelier and restaurant manager, most recently at Oakland, California's buzzy Hi Felicia Supper Club, although he joins us from the great state of Alabama. Working prior to that in Kansas City, Missouri, Parker possesses experience in a diverse group of markets, as well as a wide range of venues--from restaurants to wholesale, and more. Parker, who is otherwise an avid literature fan and a musician, lives in Alameda with his wife Brittany and their two daughters, Biloxi & Silver. Parker can be found at DECANTsf on the weekends, slinging drinks for industry regulars. (he/him)

Raised in Stilwell, KS, just 30 minutes from Kansas City, MO, Saxton has been a passionate sommelier since 2015. The turning point in Saxton's career was a bottle of 2004 Salon Champagne, which inspired him to pursue a career as a sommelier. Over the years, Saxton has held roles working for Thomas Keller and others in Napa Valley as a beverage director, wine buyer/manager, and consultant, all of which have deepened his expertise. At DECANT Napa, Saxton is excited to use his extensive knowledge and passion to educate and create memorable experiences for every guest. (he/him)