ABOUT
RIZZO
My love for wine began in my youth, exploring my grandfather's vineyards in Copertino, Puglia, Southern Italy. That early connection sparked a lifelong passion, shaping my career and aligning my profession with my enthusiasm for wine.
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I pursued formal education in Hotel Management and earned my Sommelier certification from the prestigious Associazione Italiana Sommelier (AIS), excelling in both Italian and international wine studies.
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At 17, in 1999, I moved to the United Kingdom and began my career at The Waterside Inn in Bray, a 3 Michelin Star restaurant under the guidance of Michel Roux. Over the years, I took on managerial roles at Ynyshir Hall in Mid Wales, Simpsons in Birmingham, and several key restaurant openings in Bath.
I also trained at Piazza Duomo in Alba, an esteemed venue owned by Barolo expert Ceretto.
To deepen my expertise, I worked as a Sales Manager specialising in Italian wines and spirits at Eurowines, a renowned wine importer in London.
In 2016, I relocated to Great Malvern, where I now live with my wife.
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My current venture, Rizzo Wine Club, allows me to share my extensive wine knowledge and passion. Through engaging sessions, I educate attendees on wine tasting, food pairings, wine service, and storage. Rather than formal courses, these are interactive discussions designed to foster a communal appreciation of wine.​
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I am also involved in UK wine distribution, supplying restaurants and private customers with a curated selection of exclusive wines from around the world.
What I offer
I host regular Wine Dinner Events, primarily at Benedictos Restaurant in Worcester, with occasional events at differents venues across the UK.
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My goal is to bring together people who share a passion for wine and food, exploring the art of pairing them perfectly. Each event features a carefully curated menu, typically ranging from three to five courses.
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Our gatherings create unforgettable events where you can deepen your wine knowledge, learn tasting techniques, and meet winemakers from around the world. Engage in lively discussions, share your thoughts with fellow enthusiasts, and gain the confidence to select the perfect wine for any occasion—whether it's a special event or a cozy dinner for two.
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I offer group sessions, both in my tasting room in Worcester as well as in the comfort of your own home. Corporate events, team building activities and also exclusive wine tours in Italy.
Additionally, I collaborate with renowned restaurants to create exceptional wine dinners and provide personalised experiences.