ITHACA, NY (05/17/2011)(readMedia)-- John Michael Ridd from Wilmington, NC, a senior at the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration, was awarded the Banfi Vintners Foundation Scholastic Tour Award. Each year this prize is awarded to a select number of students at premier hospitality and culinary arts programs nationwide who have demonstrated exceptional interest in fine wines. The award consists of a guided educational trip through the major wine regions of Italy, ending at the Tuscan wine estate, Castello Banfi, where students participate in classes on wine, food, and culture.