Alumni Connect Virtually During the Holidays

On December 18, 2020, the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health Alumni and the Special Events Committee of the Columbia Mailman Alumni Board hosted an Alumni Holiday Virtual Wine Tasting, led by Philippe Newlan, SIPA ’92 , the Director of Duclot USA, and the former Tasting Director and Associate Editor of Wine & Spirits Magazine.

Philippe kicked us off by introducing a cava and explaining the history of using a saber. This prompted discussion as to whether wielding such a dangerous implement might be at odds with our Public Health Oath to protect the health of all people! 

Next, the group moved on to a white wine from Portugal, learned the science behind grapes and soil, and got filled in on the most up-and-coming and overlooked wine-regions Philippe expects to see grow in the future.

We wrapped up the Zoom event with some sips of Bordeaux, discussed wine and food pairings, and enjoyed some trivia questions with Columbia Mailman prizes.   

It was great to see so many Mailman alumni take some time out of the day to gain some knowledge and relax a bit. A big thanks to Philippe and to all attendees for your questions and comments via the chat! 

– Emer Braddock, MPH