Brett Vankoski, Wine Industry Executive and President of Harvard Alumni in Wine & Food
What did you study at Harvard?
Government & Russian
Were you involved with any food or wine activities while a student?
In the late 90s there weren’t many food and wine activities for undergrads. My best memories of wine and food on campus were the special “house” dinners at Winthrop House. On two nights a year, the dining hall was set up for a four-course dinner, a jazz trio played music, and wine was served in real wine glasses on white tablecloths. My roommates and I loved these nights. It was hard to go back to the dorm afterwards. Usually, it was the start to a memorable evening.
Do you think that Harvard has prepared you for a career in food and wine or hospitality in general? If so, how?
Harvard certainly prepared me for a career in the wine business, but there is no way to be fully prepared without working in the wine business. A Harvard education provides the foundation to be successful in any career, but the only way to learn the business of wine is to dive in. Getting started is a humbling experience, especially when you start in your 30s, like me. Nearly everyone starts at the bottom. It doesn’t matter where you went to school. Providing you are willing to stick it out, your Harvard experience will help get you to where to want to go. You just need confidence, patience and humility.
What work do you do now?
In 2009, I co-founded the wine label 90+ Cellars, and grew it into a nationally recognized brand, producing and importing more than 500,000 cases annually. During this time, I led several aspects of the business including production, branding, sales, and marketing. In the summer of 2023, I left the company to be more present with my family and to plan my next journey in this business. In the meantime, I’m looking forward to building Harvard Alumni in Wine & Food into a community of people from all Harvard backgrounds who wish to come together in the spirt of great wine and food.
Websites that are relevant to your work or special interests:
