General Info

American Wine School was founded in 2002 by Marianne. Since then, more than 10, 000 wine enthusiasts have attended American Wine School classes, educational events and tastings held in seven states. Whether you know a little or a lot about wine, the American Wine School offers a systematic approach that can help you build your wine knowledge. For the more serious wine student, the American Wine School offers an internationally recognized program of study through its affiliation with the prestigious Wine & Spirit Education Trust ( WSET ). The American Wine School began as the Cleveland Wine School and still maintains its headquarters in Beachwood, Ohio on Cleveland's east side. A Certified Wine Educator, Marianne holds a Diploma in Wine & Spirits from Wine & Spirit Education Trust ( WSET ) of London and has also earned the Advanced Sommelier qualification from the Court of Master Sommeliers. Marianne is currently a candidate for both Master of Wine and Master Sommelier. After successfully participating in an educational competition sponsored by the Wines of Australia in the spring of 2008, Marianne became the Midwest Education Ambassador for Wine Australia USA Marianne has always been drawn to education and taught high school chemistry after graduating with a Bachelor of Science from Wright State University and prior to discovering her passion for wine. In addition to teaching, she has produced culinary events across the U.S. and in France with the world's top chefs and wine makers. Outside of the classroom, Marianne serves a resident sommelier for Lake Effect Radio's Dinner Plans 1330AM WELW and writes regular columns in Cleveland Magazine and TheWineBuzz as well as contributing to Restaurant Hospitality and City Visitor. A 2007 graduate of Ohio University, Jessica holds a Bachelor of Science in Telecommunications Management and Associate of Applied Science for Electronic Media. Fresh out of college, Jessica held a position at WOIO/WUAB as a Production Assistant for Raycom Media in downtown Cleveland. In November 2007, Jessica joined the Cleveland Wine School as the PR & Communications Coordinator handling all class registrations, media and community relations. In 2008 Jessica earned the WSET Intermediate Certification. She is currently studying for the WSET Advanced Certification. Outside of the world of wine Jessica takes in golf and horseback riding. Oh yeah, and she just got engaged! WSET Advance Certificated and Cleveland Wine School Captain, Brandon has plans to pursue the WSET Diploma and is currently studying for the Certified Specialist of Wine. By day, Brandon works as Legal Counsel for a chemical company in Cleveland. He is an undergraduate of Case Western Reserve University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. He also holds a Juris Doctor and a MBA from The University of Akron. His hobbies include collecting wine, running, reading and family time with his wife and son. Brandon's interest in wine began after a summer long trip in Europe. Brandon can be found consulting at Cellar Door Tasting Room during weekends and special events. Brandon is one of a handful of graduates who teaches at American Wine School on a regular basis. By day, Jerry manages the Entrepreneur-in-Residence team Jumpstart, Inc, a venture development organization that funds early stage technology companies based in Northeast Ohio. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan and a MBA from Columbia University. Jerry is a Cleveland native, but enjoyed his 15+ years in the big apple working for Radio City Music Hall, Classic Sports Network and Bristol-Myers. In addition to his busy career, Jerry finds time to handle all marketing & new business development for the Cleveland & American Wine Schools. In 2007, Jerry earned the WSET Advanced Certification and is currently studying for the Certified Specialist of Wine. Jerry's love for wine has grown Paul has always enjoyed wine and started his quest for wine ed