Bachelor Lecturer Titled VIA
Italian Wine Ambassador

Bachelor lecturer Angelo Minelli proudly wearing his official VIA Italian Wine Ambassador pin.

Bachelor of Culinary Arts and Business lecturer, Angelo Minelli, has joined the coveted membership of Vinitaly International Academy (VIA) Italian Wine Ambassadors. Since joining the faculty at Le Cordon Bleu New Zealand last year, Angelo has quickly built a reputation of earnest passion for all things viticulture. His clear enthusiasm and joy when teaching others has created an infectious interest in the wine industry throughout our staff and students.

Now based in Wellington, Angelo’s hospitality journey started from a young age, participating in his family’s Quaresmini Minelli Winery. Now with over 15 years of international experience in hospitality, winemaking, and brand management, Angelo is a sought-after speaker at Vinitaly International, Winetopia, and global wine forums. He champions sustainability, authenticity, and cultural storytelling, making wine not only a product, but a journey of heritage and identity.

“Becoming a Vinitaly International Academy Italian Wine Ambassador has been one of the most challenging and rewarding milestones in my professional journey. The VIA program is renowned for its rigorous selection process, designed to test not only wine knowledge but also cultural awareness, sensory precision, and the ability to communicate Italy’s complex heritage with clarity and passion.”

Angelo's cohort of new ambassadors, unfortunately Angelo could not be present for his graduation.

To earn the title of ambassador, applicants must prove they have mastery of Italy’s 500+ indigenous grape varieties, DOC/DOCG appellations, and regional identities at a level of detail expected only from global experts. They must also pass demanding blind tastings, oral examinations, and theoretical components, the process requires resilience, precision, and a constant drive for excellence. Angelo attributes his strong academic background in viticulture, extensive and varied industry experience, and expertise as a lecturer in wine, hospitality and business, as the key factors that led to his success.

“Achieving the Italian Wine Ambassador title affirmed my commitment to bridging Old World traditions with New World innovation. It also strengthens my mission to promote Italian wine in New Zealand and Australia, where I connect producers, students, and consumers through education, tastings, and cultural storytelling.”

Angelo is now only one of 3 VIA Italian Wine Ambassadors within New Zealand; this accomplishment is a testament to Angelo’s expertise and passion for the beverage sector. He is an invaluable mentor to our students, and we are proud to have Angelo as a part of our Le Cordon Bleu family. 

Learn under Angelo by enrolling in our Bachelor of Culinary Arts and Business.