Sonoma Winemaker Pairs Wines with Musical Instruments

Oenophile and music lover finds unique connections between wine flavors and sounds.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Wine enthusiast Randy Fuller has discovered an intriguing way to enhance the wine tasting experience - by associating different wine varietals with specific musical instruments. In his article, Fuller draws parallels between the flavors, aromas, and textures of wines like rosé, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon, and the unique sounds of instruments ranging from the piccolo to the tuba.

Why it matters

This creative approach to wine tasting provides a new lens through which wine drinkers can explore and appreciate the complexities of their favorite wines. By connecting wine to music, Fuller encourages oenophiles to engage more of their senses when savoring a glass, potentially leading to a richer, more memorable tasting experience.

The details

Fuller matches light, berry-flavored rosés with the dancing notes of the piccolo, while he envisions the rich, creamy flavors of Chardonnay as the full, resonant tones of the cello. Sauvignon Blanc's crisp acidity evokes the clarinet to him, while the oboe represents the refined, complex Pinot Noir. For big, bold Cabernet Sauvignons, Fuller hears the tympani and bassoon in harmony.

  • The article was published on February 15, 2026.

The players

Randy Fuller

A wine enthusiast and music lover who has discovered unique connections between the flavors and aromas of different wines and the sounds of various musical instruments.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The next time you're tasting a wine you like, think about what sounds the wine conjures up, and make your own kind of music.”

— Randy Fuller (nowandzin.com)

The takeaway

This creative approach to wine tasting encourages oenophiles to engage more of their senses when savoring a glass, potentially leading to a richer, more memorable tasting experience. By connecting wine to music, wine drinkers can explore the complexities of their favorite wines in a new and unique way.