Timothy Buzinski is an assistant professor of Wine and Beverage Studies at CIA in Hyde Park, NY, where he teaches graduate-level courses such as The New World—Southern Hemisphere and Entrepreneurial Innovation and Business for Wine and Beverage; bachelor’s-level courses such as Wines of the World and Spirits and Principles of Mixology; and associate-level courses such as Introduction to Wine and Spirits.
Buzinski’s career has taken him through a wide range of positions in the wine and hospitality industry. Since 2006, Buzinski has been the co-founder and proprietor of Artisan Wine Shop in Beacon, NY, specializing in small-production, hand-crafted wine and spirits from around the world. Under his leadership, the shop has become a fixture in the Hudson Valley wine community, employing many CIA graduates and serving as a trusted resource for both consumers and professionals. He has also shared his perspective as a drink columnist for The Valley Table magazine.
Before opening his own shop, Buzinski worked as a sales representative in Westchester County for The Little Wine Company in New York. Previously, he was a regional sales manager for Robert Kacher Selections in Washington, DC, overseeing distribution in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. He also held leadership positions at Charmer Industries in Astoria, NY. While operating his shop, he worked as a sommelier and restaurant manager at The Roundhouse by Terrance Brennan in Beacon.
Earlier in his career, Buzinski was a salesperson and buyer for Spain, Portugal, and South America as well as chef and tasting coordinator for 67 Wine & Spirits in New York City. He began his professional journey in the kitchen, working as a line cook at Pesce and at Legal Sea Foods in Washington, DC.
Prior to earning his associate degree in Culinary Arts from CIA, Buzinski completed a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from St. John’s University. He also holds a Certified Sommelier Certificate from the Court of Master Sommeliers.
Outside the classroom, he enjoys cycling, cooking for friends, watching films, and exploring new places.