Under the leadership of Analía Videla (founder) and Begum Korkmaz Frea (head of the Panama headquarters, oenologist and sommelier with experience in Napa Valley and Campari), the institution aims to professionalize the gastronomic sector and promote wine culture.
Wine Institute, with a consolidated track record in Argentina and Chile, has officially opened its new headquarters in Panama, establishing itself as a regional strategic hub with two locations: San Francisco (central office) and Costa del Este (focused on the gastronomic sector).
Under the leadership of Analía Videla (founder) and Begum Korkmaz Frea (head of the Panama headquarters, oenologist and sommelier with experience in Napa Valley and Campari), the institution aims to professionalize the gastronomic sector and promote wine culture. Panama was chosen for its position as an interesting hub in the region and the detected need to train professionals for wine service.
The academic program, beginning in July 2026, includes three independent levels: wine introduction, sensory analysis of wine regions, and technical training. In September, the Sommelier Degree (with international certification endorsed by all three headquarters) and the new Beer Sommelier training will be launched.
The faculty combines professionals from Argentina and Chile with local Panama specialists, with the goal of supporting gastronomic growth and training consumers who demand good service.