Master Sommelier Virginia Philip’s career includes a list of recognition spanning more than a decade. In 2002 Philip became the 11th woman in the world to earn the accreditation of Master Sommelier, the highest certification of international proficiency. She has won the title of “Best Sommelier of the United States from the American Sommelier Association for 2002-2006. The eminent James Beard Foundation nominated Philip for Outstanding Wine & Spirits Professional 2012. On May 23, 2015, Virginia was bestowed with one of the highest honors of “Honorary Doctorate Degree of Oenology” from her alma mater Johnson & Wales. She is the Beverage Department Director for The Breakers Hotel and the owner of The Virginia Philip Wine, Spirits & Academy in Palm Beach.