The World of WineHunter

Helmuth Köcher

President and founder of Merano WineFestival, sole shareholder of Gourmet’s International and The WineHunter.

Year 1959, Helmuth Koecher matures in a family whose roots are reinforced within the art of food and wine.

His grandmother grew up on a winery and dedicated herself to cooking in the service of noble families. His grandfather came from nothing other but a long lineage of weavers of fine material. Both convey to Helmuth the importance of quality of basic substance.

In one of his many journeys, Helmuth Koecher falls madly in love with Bordeaux, its wine and its vineyards. Back in Italy, he decides to dedicate body and soul to this soon-to-be greatest passion: the nectar of the gods.

In 1992 he puts himself at stake with the idea to organize an event where excellence embraces the world of elegance and creates an event never seen before in Italy. This is how the Merano WineFestival is born.

Helmuth Köcher evolved himself into the figure of The WineHunter who catches exquisite wines and culinary delicacies for passion and profession. The presentation of selected products at the events ensures that the figure of Helmuth is inextricably linked to the concept of quality.

He is invited to international congresses and tastings that allow him to broaden his knowledge and taste wines from all over the world. At the end of the 90s, his unbridled passion for every aspect of culinary production, leads him to the publication of four monothematic volumes: Grappa, Aceto, Olio and Formaggio.

Helmuth Köcher has always made it clear that the goal of this constant and tireless hunt is the discovery of excellence; that extra quality that distinguishes things and makes them unique over time.

Over the years, he has been led to pursue and express the best in different ways, starting from the selection of products that are displayed at the events of excellence, to continue with innovation and education. All of this to promote quality in all its forms because excellence is an attitude.

Degustation is Exploration Qonflate Kch 2023

Commissione The WineHunter

Nella vastità del panorama enologico, Helmuth Köcher iniziò come cacciatore solitario, diventando il riconosciuto The WineHunter, simbolo e garante dell’eccellenza vinicola e non solo…
Ciò che era iniziato come una solitaria odissea alla ricerca dei prodotti perfetti si è evoluto in un movimento più ampio: The WineHunter ha raccolto intorno a sé le commissioni di degustazione, un’élite di esperti dedicati alla ricerca dell’eccellenza nel mondo enogastronomico.
Oggi, queste Commissioni, gestite da Helmuth Koecher, costituiscono il nucleo fondamentale di valutazione per il prestigioso WineHunter Award, sancendo ogni anno l’eccellenza e la personalità distintiva nel settore enogastronomico.

In questo viaggio, l’obiettivo rimane inalterato: l’eccellenza non è solo una destinazione, ma un cammino costante, excellence is an attitude!.

Le commissioni di degustazione valutano migliaia di vini e prodotti gastronomici provenienti da tutta l’Italia e da tutto il Mondo, per selezionare quelli che al meglio rispecchiano la qualità che The WineHunter vuole comunicare, l’eccellenza e l’elitarietà..

The WineHunter Award non è solo un riconoscimento, ma una garanzia di qualità per operatori, appassionati e wine lovers.

The WineHunter Scouts

Curious about who champions the flavors of your favorite wines?
Dive into the background and members of each commission by clicking the links below.
Raise a glass to discovery!

Andrea Radic

Giornalista professionista dal 1994,

Direttore di Comunicazione di Expo Milano nel 2015, da 2018 firma sul magazine "La Freccia" con interviste esclusive e cura le rubriche "Gusta & Degusta". Su Gambero Rosso Channel (Sky Italia) è il conduttore di "Italia Vicina - In Viaggio con Radic".

WineHunter Scout per The WineHunter Award dal 2022.

E-mail: Andrea Radic

Donato Dolzani

Sommelier, Relatore e Degustatore ufficiale AIS da oltre 30 anni

Relatore e Degustatore di secondo livello ONAF, Relatore e degustatore di secondo livello ANAG. Componente di commissioni DOC e DOCG Emilia Romagna.

WineHunter Scout per The WineHunter Award dal 1999.

E-mail: Donato Dolzani

Gianpaolo Betti

Sommelier Ais, assaggiatore Onav, collaboratore Slow Wine...

Con oltre trent'anni di esperienza nel mondo vinicolo, unisce la sua passione per i distillati e le birre al suo mestiere. Parte fondamentale nell'organizzazione dell'evento Wine&Siena.

WineHunter Scout per The WineHunter Award dal 2015.

E-mail: Gianpaolo Betti

Lana Kharinton

Wine Educator & Sommelier presso FISAR

Laureata di tecnologie viticole ed enologiche. Esperta enologa e formatrice, dedicata alla diffusione della cultura del vino attraverso degustazioni guidate e lezioni approfondite..

E-mail: Lana Kharinton

Leonardo Franchi

Sommelier, wine blogger

Collaboratore del gruppo Donvino, Sommelier professionista e blogger appassionato, impegnato nell'approfondire e condividere la ricchezza e la diversità del mondo vinicolo.

WineHunter Scout per The WineHunter Award dal 2016.

Luciano Cescon

Consulente enologo per diverse aziende

Specializzato nella produzione di spumanti metodo classico e metodo Charmat. Wine Educator presso FISAR Federazione Italiana Sommelier Albergatori Ristoratori e socio Assoenologi dal 1974.

Membro e rappresentante delle commissioni d’assaggio The WineHunter Award dal 2017.

E-mail: Luciano Cescon

Massimo Crudeli

Sommelier Professionista dal 2003

Master in impresa vinicola e competizione internazionale a Verona, proprietario nel tempo di diversi ristoranti ed enoteche rinomate a Bologna. Wine Educator presso il Centro Sviluppo Commercio Turismo e Servizi di Bologna, consulente e agente di commercio nel settore vino dal 2006.

WineHunter Scout per The WineHunter Award dal 2006.

E-mail: Massimo Crudeli

Mario Coin

Ristoratore e membro onorario del team The WineHunter

Con una distinta carriera da ristoratore, la sua collaborazione con Helmuth Koecher nel 1992 ha contribuito alla fondazione del prestigioso Merano WineFestival. È un grande esperto e appassionato del mondo vinicolo e gastronomico.

WineHunter Scout per The WineHunter Award dal 1993.

E-mail: Mario Coin

Mauro Bertolli

Giornalista e direttore di italiadelvino.com.

Da anni figura di spicco nella comunicazione nel mondo del vino. Fondatore e direttore di italiadelvino.com, è conosciuto come un influente wine-blogger. Dal 2013 firma la rubrica settimanale "Andar per vini", pubblicata online su Sole24.

WineHunter Scout per The WineHunter Award dal 2000.

E-mail: Mauro Bertolli

Monia Zanette

Degustatore presso concorsi internazionali

Collabora con diverse guide e testate giornalistiche, marcando presenza nelle principali fiere del settore. Conduce degustazioni e si distingue come docente presso la scuola enologica di Verona.

WineHunter Scout per The WineHunter Award dal 2021.

E-mail: Monia Zanette

Roberto Calderan

Sommelier e Degustatore di diverse guide da oltre vent’anni

Sommelier e degustatore riconosciuto da diverse guide per oltre vent'anni. La sua esperienza professionale si radica nel mondo bancario, creando un'inedita e affascinante unione tra finanza e vino.

WineHunter Scout per The WineHunter Award dal 1993.

E-mail: Roberto Calderan

Simona Geri

Amministratore unico della società The Winesetter

Gestisce un blog omonimo e si specializza nella comunicazione digitale, collaborando con cantine, uffici stampa e eventi vitivinicoli come partner media, creatore di contenuti e degustatore di vini.

WineHunter Scout per The WineHunter Award dal 2022.

E-mail: Simona Geri

The WineHunter - Ambassadors

Welcome to the section dedicated to The WineHunter Ambassadors, the representatives selected by The WineHunter Helmuth Koecher. They represent The WineHunter brand on an international level, communicating its mission of seeking excellence and high quality. The WineHunter Ambassadors come from various countries around the world and serve as a bridge between The WineHunter and the markets in which they operate. They work in key countries such as South America, Canada, Ukraine, Asian markets, Spain, and Portugal. Here, you will have the opportunity to get to know our WineHunters better.

Karine De Souza

WH Ambassador South America WineHunter Ambassador for the South American markets since 2022, with over 23 years of experience, Karine is the founder and leader of the KDS International Business Consulting Group, which includes the KDS Food&Wines division. Specializing in strategic solutions for wine sales in Brazil, Karine provides targeted consulting to wineries through marketing and export projects, facilitating the internationalization and trade of wines. She uses the KDSES method, certified and registered on Blockchain, adopted by universities and European "Export Manager - Exim Manager" courses. With her expertise, she offers personalized services for both producers and importers, acting as a reliable partner in both markets and guiding the entire process with professionalism and passion.

Gianmarco Ferrioli

WH Ambassador Ukraine Since 2022, a WineHunter Ambassador for the Ukrainian market, Gianmarco specializes in building a bridge between the Italian and Ukrainian markets. Together with a partner, he has developed a representation strategy that connects two seemingly distant realities, introducing high-quality Italian companies to Ukraine and Ukrainian companies to the Italian market. Gianmarco's strength lies in his deep knowledge of the regions and local productions, which facilitates communication between producers and importers and promotes authentic collaborations. He excels in telling the final customer the story and tradition behind the products – whether it’s wine, spirits, pasta, cheese, or coffee – providing a unique added value. He actively collaborates with institutions to promote Italy in Ukraine and vice versa.

Marco Facchini

WH Ambassador China Since 2022, a WineHunter Ambassador for the Chinese market, Marco brings over 13 years of experience in exporting Italian wines to China, combining deep knowledge of the Italian wine sector with an accurate understanding of the needs and tastes of the Chinese market. His partnership with a young entrepreneur specialized in the Chinese language, with experience in the Food & Beverage sector in Shanghai, further strengthens their offerings. Since 2014, collaboration with Mr. Chao-chao Wu of Youjia Brand Management has enhanced the connection between Italy and China. China-Link, led by Marco, facilitates the entry of Italian professionals and SMEs into the Chinese market. Established collaborations with Interwine China, the Italian Chamber of Commerce in China, and Bugnion Spa ensure a comprehensive and reliable service

Alessandro Satin

WH Ambassador Scandinavia & Canada Since 2022, a WineHunter Ambassador for Scandinavia and Canada, Alessandro brings over 20 years of experience in the trade of quality wine and spirits. He began his career as a sales agent for Bacardi-Martini and later led the Wine and Drinks division of a company in Shanghai in 2013. Upon returning to Italy in 2017, Alessandro worked as a Wine Export Manager for global markets, both for individual wineries and as an external consultant. In 2020, he founded Tendervino.it, providing support to companies in monopoly markets, with a particular focus on Canada and Scandinavia, assisting producers in participating in tenders and entering the Horeca and private consumption markets.

Luigi D'Errico

WH Ambassador Japan & Singapore Since 2022, a WineHunter Ambassador for the Japanese and Singaporean markets, Luigi is an expert International Business Developer and IMEX Manager with 18 years of experience living in Japan. Recognized as one of the leading experts in social and economic policies in the Japan/South East Pacific region, he is accredited by Asian embassies. His career began in the financial sector, culminating as Sales Director for Banca Fineco. Since 2005, he has dedicated himself to promoting Italian wine companies in Japan. In 2017, Luigi expanded his activities to consulting, management, and the organization of promotional and commercial events in Japan and Singapore, distinguishing himself through his deep expertise in marketing, communication, and sales.

Claudio Arrigoni Neri

WH Ambassador Moldova Since 2022, a WineHunter Ambassador for Moldova, Claudio is an Italian executive and passionate sommelier. He met Vladimir, a Moldovan entrepreneur, at an international fair in Moscow in 2016, where a professional and personal synergy emerged. Claudio, an Export Manager of an Italian network active in 31 countries, and Vladimir, an operator in Eastern Europe, discovered a shared passion for wine during a trip to Kazakhstan in 2017. This passion led to the creation of I'M WINERY, a winery that merges Moldovan culture with Italian expertise. The company symbolizes the fusion between Italy and Moldova, also promoting Italian wines through the Italian Embassy. Claudio stands out for his experience and dedication to the international wine sector.

Besart Kurti

WH Ambassador Albania Since 2023, a WineHunter Ambassador for the Albanian market, Besart holds a degree in Political Science with a focus on International Relations from the University of Siena and a Master’s in Wine Export Management from the University of Camerino. He possesses an ONAV diploma and WSET certification, strengthening his expertise in the wine sector. With 12 years of experience as a sales manager in prominent Tuscan companies, he has represented renowned denominations such as Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and Orcia DOC. Specializing in the Balkan and Eastern European markets, he is an expert in commercial strategies and marketing. Of Albanian origin with Italian training, Besart embodies a perfect blend of knowledge and skills to ensure success in the wine industry.

Olga Kochurova

WH Ambassador Russia & CSI Since 2023, a WineHunter Ambassador for the Russian and CIS markets, Olga has represented Italian companies in Russia since 2019 and expanded to the entire CIS region in 2022. She works with importers of wines, alcoholic beverages, and food products in Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Moldova, the Baltic States, Bulgaria, and Georgia. Specialized in sourcing producers and wines based on specific requests, she manages contracts and guides clients through every phase of import, sales, and distribution. Olga offers comprehensive services for importers and handles the management of promotional events, participating annually in specialized wine fairs and festivals. She also collaborates with the digital edition of Wine Weekly, reaching importers and industry professionals in Russia and CIS countries.

Udo Siebert

WH Ambassador Germany Since 2024, a WineHunter Ambassador for the German market, Udo has been a passionate participant of the Merano WineFestival (MWF) for about 10 years. As a director of wine events and wine blogger, he has cultivated a deep passion for the world of Italian wine since the late '90s, promoting it in various ways in Berlin. His main activity involves organizing tastings of aged Italian wines, as well as varieties from around the world, often through vertical tastings with renowned wineries. Udo also works part-time in a wine shop in Berlin and has been contributing tasting notes on various platforms for years, sharing his expertise with the German audience.

Eyal Shelef

WH Ambassador Israel Since 2024, a WineHunter Ambassador for the Israeli market, Eyal is the CEO of Winesil, an import-export company specializing in Italian wines and the export of Israeli wines to Europe. He actively collaborates with the Italian Embassy (ICE Tel Aviv) in Israel to identify new Italian wineries interested in exporting their wines to the country. Eyal began his career in the wine sector in 2009, working as a sommelier at the iconic SUSHISAMBA restaurant, where he developed a deep knowledge of wines to offer the public top-quality products. His experience and dedication make him a key figure in the Israeli wine market.

Niccolo Lorimer

WH Ambassador USA Since 2024, a WineHunter Ambassador for the US market, Niccolo is a seasoned expert with extensive experience in licensing, importing, wholesale distribution, marketing, and brand development for alcoholic beverages. A judge at the prestigious LA County Fair wine competition, Niccolo also serves as a strategic ambassador for wine, olive oil, and artisanal food producers. His primary goal is to strengthen trade relations between the European Community and the United States. With skills ranging from professional wine tasting to negotiation and innovation, Niccolo stands out as a trendsetter and key figure in the international wine market.

Tamar Tchitchiboshvili

WH Ambassador Georgia Since 2024, a WineHunter Ambassador for the Georgian market, Tamar was born in the Kakheti region, known for its ancient winemaking tradition, particularly the use of amphoras. Raised among vineyards and amphora-filled cellars, she developed a deep passion for wine early on, which she has refined over the years. Now living in Rome, Tamar actively collaborates with the Georgian embassies in Rome and the Holy See to promote Georgian wine and its rich culture, and she participates in various projects with the Georgian Wine Museum. A sommelier and certified in wine communication, she has also completed a specialized course on teaching Georgian wine. In Georgia, she produces wine and for several years has been selecting and importing excellent wines for the European market. She is also one of the founders of the company L'ANFORA, where she continues to promote Georgian winemaking tradition with passion and innovation.

Toufic Bou Farah

WH Ambassador Lebanon Since 2024, a WineHunter Ambassador for the Lebanese market, Toufic boasts over 20 years of dedicated experience in the Lebanese wine industry, where he has cultivated a deep passion for both local and Italian wines. Founder of Tire Bouchon SAL, a company specialized in the import and distribution of high-quality wines, particularly from Italy, Toufic is known for his commitment to excellence and innovation. He recently opened "ImportExport," a wine bar that not only showcases exquisite wines but also fosters a vibrant community of wine enthusiasts. With his expertise and vision, Toufic is a key figure in promoting Italian and local wines in Lebanon.

Francesco Riccio

WH Ambassador Switzerland Since 2024, a WineHunter Ambassador for the Swiss market, Francesco is a successful entrepreneur and sommelier with extensive experience in the wine and gastronomic sectors. Since 2019, he has been the owner of FR Selection, a company specializing in the sale, import, and distribution of high-quality wines and foods. At the same time, he is a partner at ARS NOBILIS AG, a company dedicated to creating prestigious lines of enogastronomic products. With a career that includes roles as sommelier and director in renowned restaurants, Francesco has built a solid reputation in Switzerland. His international experience, strengthened by wine tastings in California, Australia, Argentina, and Chile, further solidifies his expertise as a global-level sommelier.