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.
Summer 2025 Issue - Celebration isn’t just about big moments — it’s about savoring the quiet ones too. The Summer 2025 issue explores the rituals, pours, and pairings that remind us why we raise a glass in the first place. Pour a dram. Light a cigar. Join the conversation. Author Dave Yancey View all posts - Celebration isn’t just about big moments — it’s about savoring the quiet ones too. The Summer 2025 issue explores the rituals, pours, and pairings that remind us why we raise a glass in the first place. Pour a dram. Light a cigar. Join the conversation. Author Dave Yancey View all posts
From Bottles to Brands: Diageo’s Next Chapter - From Bottles to Brands: Diageo’s Next Chapter When Diageo announced in May 2025 that it would sell its Santa Vittoria d’Alba production facility to Italian food and beverage group Newlat Food—soon to rebrand as NewPrinces—the industry barely blinked. No ticker shock. No headlines screaming about a collapse. But dig deeper, and this move tells us
Looking Behind the Barrel of a Barrel Pick - Looking Behind the Barrel of a Barrel Pick Behind the Barrel: Cory McCord & Anthony Riccardi on Whiskey, Community, and the Perfect Pick Walk into any well-stocked whiskey shop these days and you’ll likely see a shelf or two filled with bottles bearing hand-written stickers, custom labels, or group logos—signs of a private barrel pick.
Now Live: Spring 2025 Issue — Women in the Industry - Now Live: Spring 2025 Issue — Women in the Industry We’re proud to present the Spring 2025 issue of Leaf n Grain Society, where we spotlight the women shaping the cigar, whiskey, wine, and craft culture we love. This issue isn’t just a nod — it’s a full-issue tribute. Inside this edition: Angela Chapman redefines
A New Constellation in the World of Cigars - A New Constellation in the World of Cigars At Leaf n Grain, we pay close attention when tradition and innovation collide—not with a spark, but with purpose. That’s exactly what’s unfolding with the launch of Constella Group, a newly announced global alliance between Luciano Cigars and Empresa Madeirense de Tabacos SA (EMT), Portugal’s historic tobacco
Smoke, Spice, and Southern Flavor - Smoke, Spice, and Southern Flavor The Art of Pairing Cigars with BBQ and Drinks There’s nothing quite like the slow burn of a fine cigar and the bold, smoky flavors of barbecue to remind you that life is best enjoyed in the simple moments. In the South, tradition isn’t just something you remember—it’s something you
Hiram & Solomon Cigars Unveils Limited Edition “High Twelve” - Hiram & Solomon Cigars Unveils Limited Edition “High Twelve” Hiram & Solomon Cigars Unveils Limited Edition “High Twelve” to Honor Grand Master J. Eugene Margroff. Hiram & Solomon Cigars is proud to introduce the High Twelve, the newest addition to its prestigious Grand Lodge Series. This limited-edition release is dedicated to honoring M.W. J. Eugene Margroff, the
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