ABOUT
RIZZO
My love for wine began in my youth, exploring my grandfather's vineyards in Copertino, Puglia, Southern Italy. That early connection sparked a lifelong passion, shaping my career and aligning my profession with my enthusiasm for wine.
I pursued formal education in Hotel Management and earned my Sommelier certification from the prestigious Associazione Italiana Sommelier (AIS), excelling in both Italian and international wine studies.
At 17, in 1999, I moved to the United Kingdom and began my career at The Waterside Inn in Bray, a 3 Michelin Star restaurant under the guidance of Michel Roux. Over the years, I took on managerial roles at Ynyshir Hall in Mid Wales, Simpsons in Birmingham, and several key restaurant openings in Bath.
I also trained at Piazza Duomo in Alba, an esteemed venue owned by Barolo expert Ceretto.
To deepen my expertise, I worked as a Sales Manager specialising in Italian wines and spirits at Eurowines, a renowned wine importer in London.
In 2016, I relocated to Great Malvern, where I now live with my wife.
My current venture, Rizzo Wine Club, allows me to share my extensive wine knowledge and passion. Through engaging sessions, I educate attendees on wine tasting, food pairings, wine service, and storage. Rather than formal courses, these are interactive discussions designed to foster a communal appreciation of wine.
I am also involved in UK wine distribution, supplying restaurants and private customers with a curated selection of exclusive wines from around the world.
What I offer
My aim is to bring people together through memorable wine experiences, centred around the art of pairing great food with exceptional wines.
We host regular wine dinners, primarily at Benedictos Italian Restaurant in Worcester, alongside occasional collaborations at venues across the UK. Each evening features a 3 to 6 course menu, with wines pairing for each dish. You can expect a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, where you’ll enjoy great food, discover new wines, and often hear directly from winemakers or official representatives.
Beyond our wine dinners, we offer private tastings, corporate events, and bespoke experiences. Whether it’s an intimate evening, a team event, or a tailored wine experience, everything we do is designed to help you build confidence, expand your knowledge, and share great moments with others who love wine.
Alongside our events, we also offer a selection of Italian delicatessen products, at Rizzo Deli in Worcester carefully sourced to reflect the quality and authenticity we value. From artisan produce to gourmet treats, our deli brings the flavours of Italy and the best local products to your table, perfect to enjoy at home or to complement our wines.