LONDON, UK, 7 JANUARY 2025
US-based fine wine marketer and importer Wilson Daniels has awarded scholarships to ten Master of Wine (MW) students to support their continued journeys on the MW programme. Agnieszka Hilferty, Alexis Harrington, Amber Rill, Christy Fuhrman, Claudia Chamberlain, Jing Jin, Joseph Stampher, Justyna Brewczyk, Kyung eun Aum and Philipp Pfunder will each receive $2,000 USD towards their study and exam costs as part of a $20,000 collaboration with the Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW).
The scholarship was open to US residents over 21 years of age currently pursuing the Master of Wine qualification. Nearly 50% of eligible students applied, with the successful candidates demonstrating exceptional professional performance, ambition and contributions to the wider wine industry.
“This fall, we are honored to donate ten scholarships to MW students through the Institute of Masters of Wine,” said Rocco Lombardo, president of Wilson Daniels. “Supporting members of our wine community in their efforts toward advancing their wine knowledge is a core value of Wilson Daniels, and this $20,000 investment is one that we are proud to contribute. Wilson Daniels is committed to cultivating a culture for Fine Wine in America. Supporting the talented, dedicated individuals who shape our industry continues to motivate us as we look towards the future.”
Julian Gore-Booth, IMW executive director, added: “We are incredibly grateful to Wilson Daniels for their generous support, which represents a valuable investment in the future of wine in the US. This was a strong field of applicants, and I want to extend my congratulations to the successful students who represent a remarkable and diverse pool of talent of whom the IMW and the US wine community can be proud.”
Agnieszka (Aga) Hilferty, a wine educator for Santa Margherita USA, has extensive experience in compliance, operations, and events. Her work has appeared in publications including Wine Enthusiast and SOMM TV Magazine Online. A champion of diversity in wine, her expertise spans regions like Franciacorta, Madeira, and Bolgheri, alongside US wine business logistics.
On winning the scholarship, Aga remarked: “The Wilson Daniels Scholarship, besides its obvious financial impact, on a personal level validates my journey. With such a high level, high pressure and demanding programme, one often has moments of self-doubt and hesitation. Recognition of efforts by external sources brings motivation and validation! Thank you.”
Alexis Harrington, a winemaker and sommelier in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, produces low-intervention wines that highlight terroir. She leads Amica Luna Wines, a single-vineyard Chardonnay label, and Vitae Springs Winery, known for historic self-rooted vines and regenerative viticulture. With a sommelier’s insight, Alexis combines sustainability with expressive winemaking, specialising in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Alexis commented “Receiving this scholarship is a profound honour that enables me to focus on my MW studies while deepening my commitment to sustainable winemaking and education. This support inspires me to contribute meaningfully to the future of the wine industry.”
Amber Rill is a partner at Corkbuzz Wine Studio in Manhattan, overseeing wine classes and curation of its James Beard-nominated wine list. A WSET Diploma graduate and Certified Sommelier, she has judged for IWSC and Wine & Spirits Magazine. Amber combines a love of culture, travel, and wine education in her work.
Amber said of the award: “I want to express the deepest gratitude to Wilson Daniels and the IMW. The opportunity this provides to focus on my studies brings me closer to my goal of passing the MW exam. I will continue to be humbled and grateful for this support.”
Christy Fuhrman is a wine educator and writer with a diverse background spanning hospitality, retail, and education. A New Orleans native and art school graduate, her career evolved from bartending to roles as sommelier and beverage director in Chicago and New York. Christy holds the WSET Diploma, is an Advanced Sommelier, and is certified in Bordeaux, Cava and Madeira education.
Christy remarked: “I am grateful to Wilson Daniels for this scholarship, which allows me to dive deeper into my passion for wine and continue my pursuit of the MW title.”
Claudia Chamberlain is a region manager for Jackson Family Wines in the Mid-Atlantic and a WSET educator at Capital Wine School in Washington, DC. She began her career with E&J Gallo, transitioned to spirits with Heaven Hill, and holds the WSET Diploma, CWE, CSE and Advanced Sommelier credentials.
Claudia commented: “Thank you to Wilson Daniels for this generous scholarship! I am very grateful to receive this support toward my MW journey and excited to continue to pay it forward by mentoring and uplifting others in the wine community.”
Jing Jin is director of sales and marketing operations at Delicato Family Wines International Team. Based in Napa Valley since 2014, she holds the WSET Diploma, multiple Wine Scholar certifications, and degrees in International Business and Tourism Management. Jing bridges East and West in the global wine industry.
Jing said: “I am deeply honoured to be selected as the recipient of the Wilson Daniels MW scholarship. As a Chinese woman in the California wine export industry since 2014, I strive to bridge Eastern and Western wine cultures, advocating for diversity and inclusion while fostering cross-cultural understanding. This scholarship will empower me to further my studies and enhance my contributions to the global wine community, and I am truly grateful for the generous support.”
Joseph Stampher is a wine, spirits, and beer educator who is passionate about empowering individuals through education and fostering a more diverse and dynamic drinks industry. As a freelance web designer and Salesforce consultant with over a decade’s experience in beverages and technology, he helps small wineries, craft breweries and distilleries enhance customer engagement and efficiency. His work combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of the beverage industry to help his clients thrive in competitive markets.
Joseph commented: “I am incredibly grateful for this scholarship, which will help me continue pursuing my dream of becoming a Master of Wine. This support not only eases the financial burden but also fuels my passion for fostering inclusivity and innovation in wine, spirits and beer education.”
Justyna Brewczyk is the founder of Wine Witch, a wine consulting business launched in October 2024. An Advanced Sommelier and WSET Diploma graduate, she has a background in fine arts and hospitality, and brings diverse expertise to wine education, consulting, and certification.
Justyna said: “I am thrilled to be the recipient of the Wilson Daniels Scholarship. Their generous support is a meaningful investment in my professional growth within the wine industry. I look forward to deepening my expertise and contributing to the field, inspired by their confidence and encouragement. Thank you for helping me move closer to my goals!”
Kyung eun Aum is a wine instructor and columnist based in San Jose, California. Captivated by wine’s sophistication, she transitioned into the industry after gaining experience in brand marketing and seminars. A WSET Diploma holder since 2018, she shares her passion for wine through teaching, writing, and exploring food pairings in her personal life.
Kyung eun commented: “I’m truly honoured and grateful that my sincerity came through in my application for the Wilson Daniels Scholarship. I aspire to be a professional with true insight into wine and a critical mindset that can contribute meaningfully to the industry. This scholarship feels like a valuable step forward in my MW journey, bringing me closer to achieving my ultimate goal. Thank you very much.”
Philipp Pfunder is the head winemaker at Law Estate Wines in Paso Robles, California, where he crafts acclaimed wines on the Central Coast. After earning a master’s degree in Wine Science in New Zealand in 2007, he gained experience with Michael Brajkovich MW at Kumeu River in addition to Château Angélus, Screaming Eagle, and Hyde de Villaine.
Philipp said: “I beyond excited to have received the Wilson Daniels Scholarship, which will be a huge help in my journey. I am very thankful.”
