Virginia Philip
Master Sommelier
Virginia Philip earned the prestigious Master Sommelier title in 2002, becoming the 11th woman worldwide to achieve this distinction. Today, only 279 individuals hold this title globally, with just 28 being women. Her accolades include being named Best Sommelier in the USA from 2002 to 2006, receiving a James Beard Award nomination in 2012, and being recognized by WINWSA in 2021 as one of the 50 most influential women in wine worldwide.
In 2011, Virginia’s entrepreneurial vision led her to establish the Virginia Philip Wine Spirits & Academy in Palm Beach, Florida. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, mentorship, and leadership has cemented her reputation as one of the most trusted and respected voices in the world of wine.
“I love wines with character—give me an old-vine Burgundy, a Grenache Blanc with lift, or a soulful Tuscan blend and I’m all in. For spirits, it’s the quiet depth of Japanese sake, the smoke of Islay, and Mediterranean gin that keeps things interesting.”
PERSONAL FAVORITE WINES
Ridge - Grenache Blanc 2022 — A vibrant, textured white bursting with orchard fruit and citrus blossom, finishing with Ridge’s signature clarity and poise.
Avignonesi - Cantaloro, Tuscany, Italy, 2020 — A silky Tuscan red blend that marries ripe plum, dried herbs, and soft tannins. Accessible yet true to its roots.
Domaine Faiveley - Mercury Rouge Vielles Vignes 2022 — Elegant and finely structured, this old-vine Pinot Noir from Burgundy delivers pure red fruit with a whisper of forest floor.
PERSONAL FAVORITE SPIRITS
Laphroaig - 10 year Single Malt Scotch — Bold and unmistakable, this Islay classic offers waves of peat smoke, sea spray, and medicinal spice with every sip.
Hakkaisan Tokubetsu - Junmai Sake — A pristine, polished sake with cool mountain-water purity and delicate hints of melon, rice, and white pepper.
Gin Mare - Mediterranean Gin — Herbaceous and coastal, this gin blends rosemary, olive, and citrus into a botanical expression of seaside Europe.