Master Sommelier Virginia Philip’s career includes a list of recognition spanning more than a decade. In 2002 Philip became the 11th woman in the world to earn the extraordinary accreditation of Master Sommelier, the highest certification of international proficiency (today there are only 25 women out of 204 professionals worldwide). She has won the national title of “Best Sommelier of the United States” from the American Sommelier Association and sat on the Board of Directors for the Court of Master Sommeliers. With continuing acknowledgment of her skill, the eminent James Beard Foundation nominated Philip for Outstanding Wine & Spirits Professional 2012. As Master Sommelier for The Breakers Palm Beach, Philip leads the beverage department for nine restaurants and bars and 14 wine lists, including the resort’s prized 1,600-selection list, which has won Wine Spectator's Grand Award every year since its inception in 1981. Philip is also the owner of the Virginia Philip Wine Shop & Academy, which offers weekly wine education programs with guest appearances from national and international winemakers.