Anthony Verdoni’s career is a combination of academic pursuits and business interests.  He enrolled in a Doctorate program at Tulane University, having received an A.B. in Curso Classico from Saint Peter’s College in Jersey City,  New Jersey, in 1964.  When a Jesuit Classics professor suddenly became ill in 1967, Mr. Verdoni returned to St. Peter’s College as his substitute.  He went on to teach Classical Languages and Literature there for 20 years.  His knowledge of antiquity and familiarity with Italy have been great assets in establishing him as an acknowledged expert in Italian wines.  His background as an instructor and coach in college have helped him as a wine lecturer and author.  Members of the wine trade call him “The Wine Professor.”

He started in the wine business in 1971 as a part-time sommelier in a restaurant.  Subsequently, he became the owner of a wine shop, a wine buyer for two department store chains, a sales representative and a sales manager. Highlights include:  General Wine Manager for the Jaydor Corporation, one of the nation’s largest wine distributors; National Sales Manager of Southern Italian Wines for Heublein under Philip DiBelardino; Vice President, National Sales Director for American BD Company; Vice President, Marketing Italian Wines for Winebow.

He has also worked closely and directly with many prominent Italian wineries.  Brands which he has helped to develop in America include San Felice, Ceretto, Mastroberardino, Casal Thaulero, Librandi, Carpineto, D’Angelo, Regaleali, Umberto Cesari, Due Torri and Franco Cesari.

Mr. Verdoni feels that his greatest challenge and highest satisfaction have come from launching new fine Italian wines in America.  He has lectured and conducted tastings and seminars throughout the United States and Europe.  He has written many articles and training manuals,  most notably The Sommelier Executive Council’s Vintage Wine Book, now in its third printing.  He has been a member of the Sommelier’s Society of America, the Caterina de Medici Scoiety, the Society of Wine Educators and a board member of the Sommelier Institute of New Jersey.  Recently, Mr. Verdoni has received awards and commendations from the American Wine Society, the Culinary Institute of America and Johnson and Wales.