Fred Dinger
Advanced Sommelier
WSET Level 3
With over four decades in the wine and spirits industry, Fred Dinger brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to every bottle he touches. His career began in retail in Ann Arbor, Michigan, before evolving into a distinguished tenure in wholesale distribution after relocating to Florida. Along the way, he earned his Certified Sommelier and WSET Level III credentials, ultimately achieving the title of Advanced Sommelier.
Today, Fred has come full circle, returning to his retail roots at the Virginia Philip Wine Spirits & Academy in Palm Beach. Surrounded by one of the region’s most curated selections, he continues to share his passion and expertise with professionals and enthusiasts alike.
“Whether it’s a structured Shiraz, a classic Zinfandel, or a meticulously crafted gin, I’m always drawn to bottles with bold character and a story to tell.”
PERSONAL FAVORITE WINES
Bollinger - Champagne La Grande Annee 2015 — A rich and refined vintage Champagne offering layers of brioche, citrus, and toasted nuts with exceptional depth and precision.
Turley - Zinfandel Juvenile 2021 — Vibrant and fruit-forward, this youthful Zinfandel bursts with juicy red berries, spice, and a touch of earthiness.
Tournon - Shiraz Ladies Lane Vineyard 2017 — Elegant and structured, this single-vineyard Shiraz from Victoria, Australia showcases dark fruit, pepper, and subtle oak nuances.
PERSONAL FAVORITE SPIRITS
Campari - Aperitivo — A classic Italian bitter with vibrant notes of orange peel, herbs, and spice; essential for cocktails like the Negroni or Americano.
Carpano - Antica Formula — A rich, velvety sweet vermouth with deep flavors of vanilla, dried fruit, and warming spices, revered in both classic and modern mixology.
Monkey 47 - Gin — A complex and aromatic dry gin from Germany’s Black Forest, made with 47 botanicals for an intensely floral, citrusy, and herbal profile.