Meet the Talent

Join Master Sommelier Gillian Ballance for an immersive wine seminar exploring the dynamic vineyards of the Pacific Ring of Fire—a vast volcanic arc spanning from the Americas to Australia. Through a guided tasting, Ballance will present a curated selection of wines shaped by volcanic soils and striking landscapes, with a focus on regions such as Paso Robles, Napa Valley, and Australia. Guests will gain a deeper understanding of how volcanic terroir influences structure, minerality, and aromatic complexity, while also exploring the geology, culture, and winemaking traditions that define these remarkable regions.

Gillian Ballance, MS, DWS, is a highly respected wine authority with over two decades of experience leading wine programs at premier restaurants, hotels, and resorts across the United States. She currently serves as National Education Manager at Treasury Wine Estates. Her career includes leadership roles at The Rainbow Room, Windows of the World, Cello NYC, Bacara Resort, Bottega Napa Valley, and Cavallo Point.

In 2012, Ballance earned her Master Sommelier Diploma from the Court of Master Sommeliers, becoming one of only 25 women in the Americas to achieve this distinction at the time. Her journey reflects years of dedication, mentorship, and a deep commitment to the craft of wine. She also holds both the Higher Certificate and Diploma in Wines & Spirits from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust and is an approved WSET educator, regularly leading seminars and educational programs nationwide.

Her contributions to the wine industry have been widely recognized, with features in Wine Spectator, Food & Wine, and leading trade publications. She currently serves on the James Beard Foundation Beverage Advisory Board and the Court of Master Sommeliers Board of Directors.