Alan got seriously interested in wine through food, working as a cook, chef, and chef-restaurateur in New York City.  From 1992 to 2001 he was chef-owner of a NYC restaurant called Follonico, which developed a loyal following and was highly acclaimed by leading critics for its seasonal-regional inspired menu and groundbreaking wine program.

In 2002, Alan went to the village of Castiglione Falletto in the Barolo region of Piedmont, Italy, where he lived for 12 years working extensively in the vineyards and wineries through all phases of the growing and production process. He also managed the Cantina Comunale of Castiglione Falletto, where all 22 the town’s wineries were represented. 

After returning to America in 2015, Alan became the first-ever US Ambassador of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG. 

As a freelance journalist, Tardi has written for numerous publications including The New York Times, The Wine Spectator, Wine and Spirits Magazine, Food Arts, Sommelier Journal, Decanter, Seven Fifty Daily and Wine Folly. He has also published two award-winning books: Romancing the Vine: Life, Love and Transformation in the Vineyards of Barolo (St. Martins Press, 2006) won a James Beard Award for Best Wine and Spirits Book of 2006. Champagne, Uncorked: The House of Krug and the Timeless Allure of the World’s Most Celebrated Drink (Hachette, 2016) received a Gourmand Best in the World Award. 

Alan is an avid teacher, as well as a never-ending learner. He has taught many classes on food and wine and is a frequent presenter at conferences such as SommCon, The Society of Wine Educators, and the American Wine Society.

Certifications: CSW, IWS, Champagne Master Level (WSG), WSET Level 3.