Originally from Latvia and based in Italy for 35 years, for about 20, I worked as a wine consultant. I am a DipWSET-certified (WSET Diploma in Wines, London School), Master of Wine student, professional sommelier of the most important Italian associations, AIS and FISAR, Valpolicella Wine Specialist, Wine Judge, Official Port, Sherry, Madeira, and Cava Educator, Langhe Wines Ambassador, Spanish Wine Specialist, SSA Certified Sake Sommelier and Rice Sommelier.

I am a founder and project manager at Tooscans, e-commerce dedicated mainly to Tuscan products, with offline distribution, and Tooscans Wine Academy. I created the Sparkling Life website, which is published in three languages and focuses on food and wine excellence. I have a Master’s Degree in Digital marketing, I deal with consulting, communication, digital mktg, branding strategy, alongside the wine education.

Find out more: Irina Mihailenko

I was born in Tuscany and have always lived here. Part of my family is originally from Friuli, and this perfect mix of lands of food and wine lovers has left an indelible imprint on me. I have always worked in the construction industry and hold a Master’s Degree in Law.

In addition to my own activities, which include consultancy in the construction sector and managing an e-commerce business focused on food and wine products, I specialise in providing legal services for companies and legal aspects in marketing. I am a curious person, passionate about politics, history and culture. Years ago, I began to learn more about the world of food and wine, and sometimes, I enjoy writing down some of my thoughts and experiences.

Davide Buongiorno, DipWSET and Certified Educator WSET, ASPI, with AIS diploma and 15 years of experience in Michelin restaurants, during which I contributed to obtaining the second star at Met in Venice and one in Jersey, UK, just 4 months after opening. I was 1st Best Sommelier of Veneto and Monteregio in 2010, semifinalist at Best Sommelier of Italy from 2010 to 2018. I received two Wine Spectator Awards (2016-2019) and the award for Best Wine List for Trento Doc & Brunello. Judge for international competitions such as Decanter DWWA, Civiltà del Bere, 5 Stars Wine, and Cervim Vins Extrêmes. Brand Ambassador for Clos & Monopole fine wine merchant and Rcork, specializing in natural corks. I actively collaborate with associations, consortia, producers, and restaurants.

In my free time, you can find me at extreme metal concerts or traveling to remote areas with a backpack.

LinkedIn profile: Davide Buongiorno DipWSET

I was born in Moscow and I currently live in Rome. I graduated with a Degree in Languages and work as a journalist and writer. I have been living in Italy for 30 years, focusing on food, wine, and travel. My writing covers topics such as cooking, restaurants, and wine, including sparkling wines. I have published four books in Russia and thirteen in Italy, which explore gastronomic traditions and share interesting anecdotes related to recipes from both countries. Over the past few years, I have collaborated with various magazines in Italy and Russia, including Gambero Rosso, Scatti di Gusto, and Gastronom.

I was featured in the Gambero Rosso Channel television program “La Cucina degli Altri,” and I have conducted several cooking courses. I continue to enjoy cooking and currently work as a personal chef for private events. Additionally, I still write for my long-standing blog, Rossa di Sera, and for James Magazine, a luxury publication.

Linkedin Profile: Giulia Nekorkina

I have been in the wine business for about a decade. I am an AIS sommelier, DipWSET (WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines), and I am a WSET Educator. Originally from Piedmont, I studied Economy and Trade in Germany and have international experience in the sales department in the aeronautical and spatial sectors. I speak five languages ​​(Italian, English, French, German, Spanish) and lived abroad for sixteen years between Germany and France. Since 2014, I have fallen in love with the world of wine; I live and work in South Tyrol at Castel Sallegg, with roles in the past in marketing and now in sales. It is also a member of groups of technical tastings with university training centres and wine judge.

LinkedIn Profile: Elena Francia DipWSET

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