Wine, Expert Bios
Andrea Robinson, COPIA Dean of Wine Studies
In 2005, Andrea received the Wine Literary Award for 'Exceptional Contribution to the Literature of Wine.' In 2004, Andrea was inducted into the James Beard Foundation's "Who's Who of Food & Beverage in America", selected as 'Wine & Spirits Professional of The Year' by Bon Appetit Magazine, and honored with the 'M.F.K. Fisher Award' by Les Dames d'Escoffier International. In 2002, the James Beard Foundation named Andrea 'Outstanding Wine & Spirits Professional'.
Senior Wine Educator Kevin Toomajian
Kevin Toomajian is the Senior Wine Educator at COPIA. His passion for wine dates back to his college days when he remembers drinking Robert Mondavi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon out of blue plastic Solo Cups at his college fraternity house. This modest introduction to wine was enough to spark an interest, which he pursued through tasting and reading. Kevin’s passion for wine grew and, eventually, he was given a copy of “Harvests of Joy” by Robert Mondavi. This book forever changed his life, inciting an enthusiasm that led to his immersion in the wine industry.
Wine Educator Lily Peterson
Throughout my life wine has been a focal point. Its social and anthropological weight sparked my interest through its traditional value as a part of my family meals. I was fortunate enough to become introduced to wines of the world when I began managing a small wine selection for a gourmet market in Wilmington, N.C.
