The legacy of one of the Piedmont wine world’s most vibrant ambassadors is being preserved in the most fitting way possible: through a scholarship that brings others to the land and wines he cherished.
Somm.ai, the Consorzio di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe e Dogliani, and Colangelo & Partners have joined forces to announce the launch of the Ben Oberto Memorial Scholarship for Barolo and Barbaresco wine professionals. This annual scholarship honors the enduring passion and impact of Ben Oberto, known throughout the American wine industry as “The Barolo Guy”—a dynamic voice whose deep love for Piedmont’s Langhe region was as boundless as it was infectious.
Beginning in January 2026, the inaugural recipient will embark on a fully funded, immersive educational journey through the Langhe—including participation in the prestigious Grandi Langhe trade event and full enrollment at the Barolo & Barbaresco Academy Langhe Wine School.
A Lasting Legacy Rooted in Nebbiolo and Human Connection
Ben Oberto was more than a professional—he was a bridge between the U.S. and Piedmont, a gifted communicator who welcomed newcomers into the complexities of Nebbiolo with humility and heart.
“Ben, aka baroloface, was one of the most passionate, knowledgeable and humble Barolo ambassadors we have ever met in the wine industry,”
Martina and Simone Fiorino of Bruna Grimaldi.
“Barolo was home to him. His love for Nebbiolo was incredible… He was a friend, a mentor, and a great soul.”
From walking vineyards in Grinzane Cavour to championing producers at tastings from Manhattan NYC to San Francisco, Oberto’s knowledge was surpassed only by his generosity in sharing it. His unexpected passing in late 2024 left a deep void—but also sparked a commitment from friends and colleagues to ensure his voice lives on through the next generation.
Inside the Scholarship: A Rare Opportunity for U.S. Wine Pros
The Ben Oberto Memorial Scholarship is designed for U.S.-based wine professionals with at least five years of experience working with Barolo and/or Barbaresco. It is ideal for sommeliers, buyers, educators, and importers seeking a deeper, first-hand understanding of Langhe terroir and traditions.
The Award Includes:
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Round-trip travel to Piedmont in January 2026
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VIP access to Grandi Langhe in Torino—Italy’s premier trade tasting event
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Enrollment in the Barolo & Barbaresco Academy Langhe Wine School: a multi-day, in-depth program featuring:
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Classroom seminars
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Guided tastings
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Geological deep-dives
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On-site vineyard visits
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Direct engagement with top producers and consorzio educators
“Ben believed deeply that the best way to understand Barolo and Barbaresco was to walk the vineyards and meet the people behind the wines,” said Jeremy Hart. “Through this scholarship, we aim to keep that vision alive.”
Why Now? The Timing Is Crucial for Piedmont Education in the U.S.
With Barolo and Barbaresco continuing to grow in prestige—and appearing more frequently on curated lists in Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, and beyond—there’s an urgent need for nuanced, experience-based education around these wines.
“Today, Langhe wines continue to see growing interest across the U.S.,” said Gino Colangelo, President of Colangelo & Partners. “Educating and empowering the trade community is key to sustaining that momentum.”
“Ben Oberto was a person who loved life, and it showed in his contagious passion for wine,” added Giacomo Conterno of Poderi Aldo Conterno. “His empathy and professionalism made him a perfect ambassador of Barolo… It was a privilege to have known him.”
Apply: Criteria, Timeline & How to Stand Out
Applications Open: Late June 2025
Deadline: August 15, 2025
Announcement of Recipient: September 2025
Eligibility:
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U.S.-based wine trade professional
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Minimum 5 years of experience working with Barolo and/or Barbaresco
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Has not previously attended the Barolo & Barbaresco Academy in Piedmont
Application Process:
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Multiple-choice and open-ended questionnaire on Langhe knowledge
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Personal statement explaining motivation and connection to the region
Selection Panel Includes:
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Representatives from the Consorzio
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Somm.ai industry experts
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Colangelo & Partners communications and trade specialists
More information and application link: Ben Oberto Memorial Scholarship
About the Organizers: Preserving Quality and Innovation
Somm.ai
An AI-driven data platform that empowers wine and spirits professionals with real-time analytics, beverage list insights, and brand performance data across on-premise channels.
Consorzio di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe e Dogliani
Founded in 1934, this historic wine consortium represents over 600 producers. It ensures quality, origin protection, and the global integrity of Barolo, Barbaresco, Dolcetto, and other Langhe wines.
Colangelo & Partners
An award-winning integrated communications agency that helps elevate premier wine, food, and spirits brands across the U.S. and international markets.
Final Thought: A Scholarship Born of Love and Legacy
The Ben Oberto Memorial Scholarship for Barolo and Barbaresco wine professionals is more than a professional opportunity—it’s a heartfelt tribute to a man who made the Langhe feel like home to so many. For those selected, it will be a chance not only to advance their knowledge, but to walk in Ben’s footsteps—through vineyards, villages, and vintages that shaped one of the wine world’s most beloved figures.
Raise a glass. Continue the journey. And help carry Ben’s passion into the future.
