Christie Dufault

Christie Dufault is a Professor of Wine and Beverage Studies at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). She holds an Advanced Certificate from the Court of Master Sommeliers and a master’s in education from Sonoma State University. Her career includes roles as wine director at notable San Francisco restaurants like Gary Danko and Quince, earning accolades such as the Wine Spectator Grand Award and recognition as 'Best Young Sommelier' (2003) and 'Wine Mentor of the Year' (2021).

• Education: B.A. from Simmons College, M.Ed. from Sonoma State University
• Affiliations: CIA School of Graduate Studies

Her research focuses on wine regions, sensory analysis, and educational methods in beverage studies. She co-authored Two in the Kitchen (2012) and contributed to journals like The Art of Eating and Somm Journal.

Awards include knighthood into the Cavalieri del Vino e Tartufi d’Alba (2019) and recognition for her mentorship in the wine industry. She designs courses such as 'Global Wine Summit' and integrates sensory learning into CIA's online master’s program via curated wine kits.