Wine Institute of New England Claimed

This Connecticut-based wine school offers wine-tasting classes, events, and more serious fare. Their academic programs include the Certified Specialist of Wine program from the Society of Wine Educators (SWE) and the French Wine Scholar from the Wine Scholar Guild.

The Wine Institute of New England does not have its facilities. Instead, the school rents a classroom space at the University of New Haven.

Renée Allen, JD, CSW, FWS

Like many of the best wine instructors, she was running a wine school was her second (possibly third) career. First, she started as a lawyer, graduating from the prestigious Boston University School of Law. Then, she worked for several firms until she pivoted into an editorial position at the Connecticut Law Reporter.

Renée founded the Wine Institute of New England in 2010. She quickly built a portfolio of classes and wine programs, bringing in several other well-credential wine instructors. Within five years of starting the school, she was hired by the University of New Haven to teach wine and spirits courses for their Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management.

While running the school, she has contributed to national and regional publications, including Connecticut Magazine and the Beverage Journal. In addition, numerous publications, including the New York Times, have quoted her as a source.

Wine Programs Offered

The Wine Institute of New England offers certifications from the Society of Wine Educators and the Wine Scholar Guild. However, no programs are currently scheduled.