Our History

We were started by the late Larry Elsener in 1970 at a time when the interest in California wines was growing tremendously, culminating in the famous 1976 Judgment of Paris when a Chateau Montelena Chardonnay and a Stag’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon won top honors.

Larry served as our president from the founding in 1970 to the end of 1982.  The majority of the tastings in those early years were held at his home.  In addition to the Cellar Society, Larry presented classes at the Bay Club and private wine lectures at his home in San Francisco.  He passed away on Christmas Day 2016.

To see the program from his memorial service, click here: Memorial Service Program for Larry Elsener.

Here’s a description of the first club tasting on May 8, 1970:

Here’s a list of memorable wines poured during that first tasting:

Here’s a photo of the Certificate of Appreciation given to Larry at the Repast on Dec. 6, 1981: