News Summary
Anna Binkovitz has been awarded the title of Sommelier Student of the Year by the Wine School of Philadelphia. As a former slam poet and whiskey educator, she brings a unique perspective to the local wine industry. Binkovitz’s dedication to wine education and hospitality has made her a key figure in the community. She aims to make wine accessible and enjoyable, highlighting her commitment to transforming the perception of wine. Her future aspirations include opening a bottle shop and sparkling wine bar, further expanding her impact on the local scene.
Philadelphia – Anna Binkovitz has been awarded the title of 2025 Sommelier Student of the Year by the Wine School of Philadelphia. This accolade recognizes her as a compelling new voice in the wine and hospitality industry within the city. Binkovitz, a former slam poet from Minnesota, brings a unique background in whiskey education and a fresh perspective to her role in the wine community.
Binkovitz’s qualifications include earning her sommelier pin and completing the Wine School’s advanced program in less than two years. Her talent, positive presence in the classroom, and ability to enhance her classmates’ learning experiences have stood out during her time at the institution. The founder of the Wine School highlighted her creative flair with language, which complements her managerial skills in the wine service sector.
Currently, Binkovitz serves as the service manager at a wine-focused restaurant in Rittenhouse, part of the High Street Hospitality Group. Her dedication to both service and education has been instrumental in making wine more accessible to patrons while fostering a welcoming atmosphere. Binkovitz humorously described her service approach as entering “goblin mode,” a playful reference to her unconventional style that adds to her charm.
Each year, the Wine School selects one advanced student who exemplifies the qualities of promise and impact for the Sommelier Student of the Year award. Keith Wallace, the founder of the Wine School, expressed admiration for Binkovitz, noting her inspiring ability to elevate the learning experiences of her peers. Through her dedication and passion for wine, she has become a significant figure among her classmates and the local wine community.
The Wine School of Philadelphia, established in 2001, is recognized for its rigorous and enjoyable programs in wine education and sommelier certification. It serves as the birthplace of the National Wine School and continues to play a vital role in Philadelphia’s food and beverage community. The school aims to make wine education engaging and unpretentious, providing certification programs for casual wine enthusiasts and aspiring professionals alike. Its reputation has garnered recognition, with SOMM Magazine dubbing it “the best wine school in the United States” in December 2024.
In addition to her accomplishments as a student, Binkovitz has plans to further her impact on the wine scene by opening a bottle shop and sparkling wine bar aimed at making sparkling wines more approachable for a broader audience. Her vision reflects a commitment to demystifying wine, ensuring that enjoyment takes precedence over intimidation.
Binkovitz’s future aspirations also include teaching, as she believes in the importance of creating a joyful atmosphere around wine. She emphasizes that wine should be accessible and celebrated rather than seen as an exclusive experience reserved for connoisseurs. This philosophy aligns with her approach in the restaurant environment, where she fosters connections between wine and patrons in a relaxed setting.
As Binkovitz continues her journey in the wine industry, her innovative spirit and passion for education position her as a key player in transforming the perception of wine, making it an inclusive experience for everyone.
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- PennLive: Former Slam Poet Masters Language of Wine
- PennLive: Philly Wine School Launches Podcast
- Philly Mag: Philly Food & Drink Classes Gift Guide
- TimeOut: Wine School of Philadelphia
- Philly Voice: Wine School of Philadelphia Online Classes
- Wikipedia: Wine
- Google Search: Wine Education
- Google Scholar: Wine Education
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wine
- Google News: Wine School
