Sheri Sauter Morano
Master of Wine
Sheri’s interest in wine was initially sparked during a trip to Italy when she was 17 years old. She began her formal wine education at the International Wine Center (IWC) in New York City in 1997 following her graduation from Duke University with a degree in Medieval & Renaissance Studies and Classical Studies with a minor in Art History.
At the IWC, where she was later an instructor, she completed courses designed by the Wine and Spirit Education Trust to educate members of the wine trade. Sheri was awarded the Intermediate Certificate in 1998 and the Advanced Certificate in 1999. In October 2000, she became one of the youngest Americans to complete the rigorous Diploma and the following year passed the Certified Wine Educator exam designed by the Society of Wine Educators to promote higher standards among wine educators in the United States.
In November 2003, she earned the prestigious title Master of Wine. Originally created by the wine trade in the United Kingdom, the title Master of Wine as designated by the Institute of Masters of Wine is generally recognized as the highest credential that can be obtained in the wine trade. Sheri joined the Institute as the youngest female American Master of Wine. Currently, there are only 25 Masters of Wine in the United States and 280 in the world.
Sheri has served as the spokesperson for the Wines of France campaign since 2004. In addition to her wine consulting work she has contributed articles to such publications as The Business of Wine: An Encyclopedia, The World of Wine and Wine Business Monthly. She has been featured in numerous magazines and online publications including Maxim, Marie Claire, Bloomberg News and Fortune and has appeared on television and radio shows around the United States as well as in France.
Sheri resides in Chapel Hill, North Carolina with her husband, son, four cats and three dogs. In her spare time she enjoys running, gardening and cooking.
