Dave "Greybeard" Yancey
WSET Spirits Sommelier , WSET Wine Sommelier , Bourbon Steward, Cigar Sommelier
Instagram: @justgreybeard
Facebook: Dave.Yancey
LinkedIn: Dave Yancey
I smoked my first cigar in April 92. I was with some friends, and one of our friends brought us some “Cubans” he had brought back from a mission trip. We were sitting out on our back porch, lit up, and well, the rest is history. I knew I was hooked.
Nearly 28 years later, I came upon what is now my passion: pairing cigars. The first pairing that I can remember that impacted the overall experience was a La Aurora Rube with a Cigar City Maduro Brown Ale. The way the flavors complimented each other opened my eyes to the possibilities.
Two years later, I focus on exploring all the pairings I can find, learning all I can about Cigars, Whisk(e)ys, Wines, and so much more. My desire, goal, and dream are to build Leaf n Grain Society as a community and platform to share this passion with all who enjoy cigars.
GSM-Bold, Rustic Charm of Grenache, Syrah, & Mourvèdre - GSM-Bold, Rustic Charm of Grenache, Syrah, & Mourvèdre There’s something undeniably captivating about a good GSM blend. It’s bold but not overbearing, rustic yet refined—a wine that feels just as at home at a backyard barbecue as it does at a candlelit dinner. The blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre isn’t just a formula; it’s
Whiskey’s Future: Trends and Hurdles - Whiskey’s Future: Trends and Hurdles The whiskey industry, a cornerstone of global spirits markets, is at a fascinating crossroads. Once dominated by large players and traditional styles, the sector now navigates a complex blend of growth, challenges, and evolving consumer expectations. While the global whiskey market exhibits strong growth potential, industry-wide hurdles demand attention and
Magazine: Winter 2024 Issue - Magazine: Winter 2024 Issue Winter 2024 of Leaf n Grain Society Magazine is finally here. The theme of this issue—Grain-to-Glass, Seed-to-Cigar—embodies the artistry, craftsmanship, and tradition that resonate deeply with our mission. These journeys, from the ground to the glass or humidor, reflect not only the meticulous care of their creators but also the shared
The Birth of American Single Malt Whiskey - The Birth of American Single Malt Whiskey American whiskey has long been defined by bourbon, Tennessee whiskey, and rye—styles regulated under the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897 and further clarified by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). However, as craft distilling surged in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, American distillers began
WhiskyFest Chicago 2024 - WhiskyFest Chicago 2024 WhiskyFest Chicago 2024, held on November 15 at the Hyatt Regency, was a remarkable gathering for whisky enthusiasts and whisky ‘newbies’ alike. With a crowd of what appeared to be 400+, including the VIPs, the event showcased an extensive array of whiskies from around the globe, including aged Scotch single malts like
Christmas Gift Guide for Cigar, Whiskey, and Wine Lovers - Christmas Gift Guide for Cigar, Whiskey, and Wine Lovers As Christmas approaches, you might be wracking your brain for that perfect gift for the cigar, whiskey, or wine enthusiast in your life when it feels like they have everything; the best gifts are those that add a unique experience, bring luxury to their rituals, or
The Evolution of the Cocktail: A Journey from Medicinal Elixirs to Modern Mixology - The Evolution of the Cocktail A Journey from Medicinal Elixirs to Modern Mixology The cocktail as we know it today has undergone centuries of transformation, traveling through cultures, blending flavors, and refining techniques to become an essential fixture in global hospitality. Its origins date back hundreds of years to crude but flavorful medicinal concoctions that
The Global Journey of Whisky: A Historical Perspective - The Global Journey of Whisky: A Historical Perspective Whisky, a drink with a history as rich as its flavor, has woven itself into the cultures and economies of nations worldwide. From the rolling hills of Ireland to the misty Scottish Highlands, the ancient traditions of Japanese craftsmanship, and the bold innovation of American distilleries, whisky
Cigars: From Taino Tribes to the Modern Boom - Cigars: From Taino Tribes to the Modern Boom The history of cigars is steeped in cultural, political, and economic events that have shaped the way cigars are made, consumed, and valued today. From the early practices of the Taino tribes to the revival of the cigar industry in the late 20th century, cigars have a
Barrel Global™ Partners with Still Austin Whiskey Co. - Barrel Global™ Partners with Still Austin Whiskey Co. Barrel Ownership Company Makes its Move into the Lone Star State in Partnership with Award-Winning Texas Distillery Iowa & Austin, Texas (August 27, 2024) – As Texas Whiskey continues to give Kentucky and Tennessee a run for their money with its booming distillery scene and distinctive sense