13th Annual Wine Tasting Returns on April 3, 2025!

In partnership with the Coccia Italian Institute, the Office of Alumni Engagement is thrilled to invite all wine enthusiasts to a night of exploration and education. Embark on a captivating journey through the Twin Islands of Italy—Sicily and Sardinia—known for their exceptional wines and rich cultural heritage, at the 13th Annual Wine Tasting on April 3, 2025.

“We’re excited to bring our alumni and friends back to campus for activities that are fun and educational,” says Jeanne Marano, assistant vice president for Annual Giving and Alumni Engagement. “Our wine tasting has become a tradition for many attendees and we are delighted to invite our newest members of the alumni community – the Class of 2025 – to their first official alumni event!”

This year’s event is hosted in partnership with the Coccia Institute, a component of Montclair’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences. The Coccia Institute advances and celebrates Italian American culture, serving as an engine for explorations into the rich history of Italians and Italianità —“Italian spirit”—in the United States in the arts and humanities, business and politics, foodways and popular culture. 

“The Coccia Institute is thrilled to partner with Alumni Engagement to welcome alumni of all backgrounds to the wine tasting event. We seek to celebrate the diversity of cultures in America and provide cultural exploration and preservation of Italian American history for current and future generations,” says Mark Rotella, Director of the Coccia Institute.

While anyone can enjoy a glass of wine, it takes a refined palate to truly appreciate its complexity. Whether you’re a novice or a connoisseur, in this workshop attendees will learn how to taste wine like a pro, using basic senses—sight, smell, taste—and beyond. As you savor each pour, you’ll receive in-depth descriptions of the wines, perfect for taking notes and enhancing your tasting experience. Featured wines include:

• Planeta Rosé
• Sella & Mosca Vermentino
• Cusumano Insolia
• Sella & Mosca Cannonau Riserva
• Planeta La Segreta Nero d’Avola

“Events like the annual wine tasting gave me sense of belonging at Montclair State University as I was able to immerse myself in cultural experiences that enriched my passion for my Italian heritage,” says Cristina Latino, ’21, ’24 MBA, a first-generation college graduate, and program coordinator at the Coccia Institute. “These experiences afforded me opportunities to establish a career for myself in Italian American affairs, where I now have the pleasure of creating similar experiences for students and community members.”

Attendees can get ready for an unforgettable experience guided by sommelier Gerry Piserchia, director of Education for Fedway Associates Inc. With over 30 years in the wine industry, Piserchia’s deep knowledge and passion for the world of wine will inspire and educate as he takes the group through the tasting of five Italian wines. From his humble beginnings in an Italian household to becoming a Certified Wine Educator, Piserchia has traveled the world, working with renowned wineries and educating both industry professionals and wine lovers alike.

“At last year’s event, I was able to meet new people, network and discover how I could stay connected to Montclair after I graduate – all while learning about different types of wine,” adds Matthew Moreau ’25, pictured above at last year’s event. “I’m excited to graduate this spring and come back to campus for more events like this!” 

Don’t miss an evening filled with rich Italian wines, expert guidance and unforgettable memories. Seats are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. This event is open to guests 21 and older. Photo ID is required for verification. Registration is required and the deadline is March 27, 2025. 

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, April 3, 2025
• Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
• Cost: $50 per person | Special rate for Class of 2025 graduates: $25
• Location: University Hall, Conference Center, 7th Floor
• Registration: Register Now!

For questions, please contact the Office of Alumni Engagement at 973-655-4141 or alumni@westridgeparkapartments.com.