Wagner Erne Named Italian Wine Ambassador by Vinitaly

From Valpolicella to Vinitaly: Wagner Erne earns the title of Italian Wine Ambassador

We’re thrilled to announce an exciting new milestone at Plansel International Wine School: our distinguished teacher Wagner Erne has officially earned the prestigious title of Italian Wine Ambassador, awarded by the internationally renowned Vinitaly International Academy.

This distinction places Wagner among a select group of global wine professionals who have demonstrated deep knowledge and passion for Italian wines. It’s a major achievement that not only marks a personal victory for Wagner, but also enriches the educational experience for all students learning under his guidance.

A Journey That Began With Curiosity and Challenge

Wagner’s journey into the world of Italian wines began with a challenge: their diversity. “The variety and complexity of Italian wines, in addition to my limited experience with them, were my greatest challenge when I started my formal wine education,” he says.

Determined to rise to that challenge, he set a personal goal — to master Italian wines and become a true expert. His first major step came in 2022, when he became a Valpolicella Expert, specializing in one of Italy’s most iconic regions. This was the foundation that ultimately led to his Italian Wine Ambassador certification in 2024.

What Is an Italian Wine Ambassador?

The title of Italian Wine Ambassador is awarded by Vinitaly International Academy (VIA), an organization that sets the gold standard for Italian wine education around the world. The program is known for its rigorous coursework, intensive regional studies, and challenging exams that require a deep understanding of Italian viticulture, grape varieties, history, legislation, and tasting techniques.

Candidates are trained and tested by leading figures in the wine world, including Stevie Kim, Sarah Heller MW, Professor Attilio Scienza, and Fabio Poli — all of whom Wagner credits for their mentorship and inspiration.

This title affirms Wagner’s expertise in all 20 Italian wine regions and showcases his ability to teach and communicate Italian wine culture with authority and depth.

Why Italian Wine Education Is So Complex — and So Rewarding

Italy is home to over 500 native grape varieties and more than 300 officially recognized wine regions. Understanding Italian wine means understanding history, climate, culture, and countless small producers who represent centuries of tradition.

“Learning Italian wines is like learning a new language. Once you get it, everything opens up — food, geography, heritage. It becomes a lifestyle,” Wagner shares.

That’s why this title isn’t just an accolade — it’s a key that unlocks a world of wine knowledge Wagner is eager to share with his students.

What This Means for Our Students

As one of Portugal’s most versatile wine educators, Wagner brings a global perspective to the Plansel classroom. His experience spans:

 

• • WSET Level 3 (and nearing Level 4 Diploma)

• • Le Cordon Bleu graduate in Wines of the World & Harmonization

• • Wine club founder and vineyard consultant

• • Valpolicella and now Italian Wine Ambassador

Students who join Wagner’s courses can now benefit from deeper insights into Italian terroirs, wine styles, and tasting frameworks — all delivered with the clarity and charisma that make him such a respected teacher.

Grazie Mille & Saluti!

We’re incredibly proud to have Wagner as part of our faculty and can’t wait to see how his Italian wine journey continues to evolve. His dedication to education, storytelling, and sensory exploration embodies everything we stand for at Plansel International Wine School.

Join us. Learn from the best. Taste the world.