Peter Neptune is one of only 269 individuals in the World to hold the wine industry’s most prestigious title: Master Sommelier. He is a 35-year veteran of the wine business, beginning as a sommelier in New York City, where he trained and worked for 10 years. Upon returning to his native California, Peter entered into Wine Education full time, and has established a nationwide reputation as one of the premier wine educators in the USA. In addition to his MS Diploma, Peter holds the title of Certified Wine Educator with the Society of Wine Educators (for which he was recognized with the Banfi Award for Excellence in 2003), and holds a Diploma in Wine and Spirits from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust in London. He also holds the credential French Wine Scholar, with Highest Honors.
Peter is one of the teaching Masters at the Court of Master Sommelier Intro and Advanced Courses, and is an examiner at the Certified, Advanced, and Master Sommelier Examinations. In 2003 Peter began the first WSET school in Southern California. Currently, Neptune School of Wine administers the WSET Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 Diploma Certification programs, as well as the French and Spanish Wine Scholar programs and exams. To date he has taught over 1,000 students at the various levels.
Where are you working currently and how has being a MS supported you in your current role?
I own and teach a the Neptune School of Wine in Costa Mesa, CA. Being an MS gives me complete credibility with my students.
Where were you working when you passed?
I was VP of WIne Education at a company called the Henry Wine Group when I passed the MS exam.
What advice do you give those who are pursuing certification?
To pass certifications, you must put in the time and the work. Nothing is free or easy.
What is your desert island wine, or what wines/beverages are you currently excited about?
Desert Island wine would have to be 1961 Ch. Haut Brion.
