Business Details
34 Years
experience
Wine & Spirits Education and Classes in Pittsburgh
Palate Partners School of Wine & Spirits has been a dynamic force in wine and spirits education since 1992. Headquartered in Pittsburgh's Lawrenceville neighborhood, our team of experts combines decades of industry experience with internationally recognized certifications, including WSET Diplomas and specialized sommelier training. We offer a comprehensive range of educational programsfrom beginner wine classes to advanced WSET certification coursesthat cater to both consumers and industry professionals.Our sister company, Dreadnought Wines, provides access to boutique global selections, while our corporate gifting division creates custom luxury packages. With a near 100% pass rate for WSET exams and a Dean of Drinking dedicated to making wine approachable, we combine academic rigor with engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Our 25-year history includes developing Pittsburgh's premier wine school and establishing partnerships with top hospitality establishments across the region.
Services
Wine Education
Spirits Certification
Beer Courses
Sake Training
Corporate Gifting
WSET Exam Prep
Private Tastings
Travel Programs
Gift Baskets
Consulting Services
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We offer WSET courses with a near 100% exam pass rate since 2015
- Our team includes WSET Diploma holders and certified sommeliers
- We provide hands-on learning with industry-recognized certifications
- We combine academic rigor with engaging, approachable teaching methods
- Our Pittsburgh location houses three specialized beverage businesses
Associations and certifications
- WSET
What people say
Knowledgeable instructors
Engaging classes
Excellent WSET prep
Well-organized trips
Personalized attention
Services
Wine Education
Our wine education programs cater to all knowledge levels through in-person and online classes. From introductory Wine 101 sessions to advanced WSET certification courses, we provide structured learning paths that develop tasting skills, grape variety identification, and food pairing expertise. Our Pittsburgh-based instructors combine academic knowledge with practical industry experience to create engaging educational experiences.
Spirits Certification
We offer comprehensive spirits education through WSET-certified programs covering production methods, flavor profiles, and service techniques. Our curriculum includes Level 1-3 awards that examine major spirit categories including whiskey, rum, gin, and vodka. Students gain hands-on experience through guided tastings and practical assessments that develop professional evaluation skills.
Corporate Gifting
Our custom corporate gifting solutions provide luxury wine and spirits packages tailored to business needs. With over 25 years of experience, we create sophisticated gift programs for Fortune 500 companies and small businesses alike. Options include branded gift boxes, wine accessories, and personalized certificates that combine premium products with professional presentation.
Travel Programs
We organize international wine-focused travel experiences to premier wine regions like Sardinia and Piedmont. These curated trips combine vineyard visits, winemaker interactions, and cultural exploration with expert-led educational components. Participants gain behind-the-scenes access to boutique producers while experiencing regional cuisine and hospitality through organized tastings and cooking classes.
Private Events
Our private event services create customized wine and spirits experiences for groups of all sizes. From casual Friday tastings to corporate team-building events, we design interactive programs that match client preferences and occasion requirements. Events feature guided tastings of boutique selections from our sister company Dreadnought Wines paired with gourmet accompaniments.
People
Deb Mortillaro
Queen of Quaffing
Former private chef with 15 years culinary experience, WSET Diploma holder, and Advanced Sake Sommelier. Co-founder of Pittsburgh's premier wine school and developer of the Dean of Drinking program. Leads international wine trips and specializes in food and wine pairing education.
Mike Gonze
Connoisseur in Chief
President of Dreadnought Imports with 43+ years in wine distribution. WSET Level 3 certified and French Wine Academy graduate. Created Pittsburgh's first wine school in 1995 and developed the company's international travel programs. Industry expert with global winery connections.
Caiti Sullivan
Beer Instructor
Co-founder of Coven Brewing with decade-long craft beer experience. Holds WSET Level 2 beer certification and pursuing BJCP accreditation. Former brewer at Dancing Gnome brewery. Specializes in beer education programs and fermentation workshops.
Marco Scapagnini
Travel Specialist
Founder of Niche Italy with 25+ years in travel journalism and tour operation. Author of 23 Italian travel guidebooks and former DK Eyewitness Guides contributor. Expert in authentic Italian food, wine, and cultural experiences. Develops customized European travel itineraries.
Gabriele Mastrilli
Group Leader
Licensed Italian tour guide with master's degrees in Ecology and Biogeography. Official Pantelleria National Park guide and experienced hiking leader. Combines cultural expertise with natural history knowledge to create immersive travel experiences. Receives consistent participant praise for organizational skills.
Questions
What WSET certification levels do you offer?
We offer WSET Levels 1-3 in Wine, Spirits, and Beer, plus Sake certifications. Courses include in-person instruction with tasting samples and study materials.
Do you require prerequisites for advanced courses?
While not mandatory, we recommend completing Level 1 before advancing. For Level 3 Wine, we suggest prior completion of Level 2 or equivalent knowledge.
How do I order corporate gifts?
Contact our Pittsburgh shop by phone or email to discuss custom options. We create tailored gift packages with wine, spirits, and accessories for businesses of all sizes.
Are wine classes available online?
Yes, we offer online WSET courses with self-paced study materials. In-person options include tasting samples and direct instructor access for Pennsylvania residents.
What travel destinations do you specialize in?
Our current programs focus on Italian wine regions including Sardinia and Piedmont. Trips feature winery visits, cultural experiences, and gourmet dining opportunities.
