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Tasting Commissions

The WineHunter Tasting Commissions play an integral role in curating a selection of the finest wines and gastronomic delights. Each year, these dedicated connoisseurs embark on the monumental task of sampling in total over 7,000 distinct wines, seeking those that stand out not just for their exceptional quality, but also for the unique tales they tell and the distinctive attributes they possess.

Being a WineHunter Scout is a distinction and a commitment rolled into one. Every WH Scout, with their refined palate and unwavering passion, is perpetually in pursuit of outstanding and intriguing products. Their diligence ensures that only those wines and producers that truly epitomize excellence are granted the prestigious The WineHunter Award, opening doors to premier events such as the Merano WineFestival, Wine&Siena, FarmFoodFestival, and all signature WineHunter events.

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

Professional journalist since 1994,

Communication Director of Expo Milano in 2015, since 2018 a contributor to the magazine "La Freccia" with exclusive interviews, and curates the "Gusta & Degusta" sections. On Gambero Rosso Channel (Sky Italia), he is the host of "Italia Vicina - In Viaggio con Radic".

WineHunter Scout for The WineHunter Award since 2022.

E-mail: Andrea Radic

Donato Dolzani

Sommelier, Speaker, and AIS Official Taster for over 30 years

Second-level speaker and taster for ONAF, second-level speaker and taster for ANAG. Member of DOC and DOCG commissions in Emilia Romagna.

WineHunter Scout for The WineHunter Award since 1999.

E-mail: Donato Dolzani

Gianpaolo Betti

Ais Sommelier, Onav Taster, Slow Wine...

With over thirty years of experience in the wine world, he combines his passion for spirits and beers with his profession. He plays a crucial role in organizing the Wine&Siena event.

WineHunter Scout for The WineHunter Award since 2015.

E-mail: Gianpaolo Betti

Lana Kharinton

Wine Educator & Sommelier at FISAR

Graduate in viticultural and enological technologies. Expert oenologist and educator, dedicated to spreading wine culture through guided tastings and in-depth lessons.

E-mail: Lana Kharinton

Leonardo Franchi

Sommelier, wine blogger

Collaborator with the Donvino group, professional sommelier, and passionate blogger, committed to exploring and sharing the richness and diversity of the wine world.

WineHunter Scout for The WineHunter Award since 2016.

Luciano Cescon

Oenological consultant for various companies

Specialized in the production of sparkling wines using the classic method and the Charmat method. Wine Educator at FISAR (Italian Federation of Sommeliers, Hoteliers, and Restaurateurs) and a member of Assoenologi since 1974.

Member and representative of the tasting commissions for The WineHunter Award since 2017.

E-mail: Luciano Cescon

Massimo Crudeli

Professional Sommelier since 2003

Master's degree in wine business and international competition in Verona, over time he has owned several renowned restaurants and wine shops in Bologna. Wine Educator at the Bologna Center for Trade, Tourism, and Services Development, consultant and sales agent in the wine sector since 2006.

WineHunter Scout for The WineHunter Award since 2006.

E-mail: Massimo Crudeli

Mario Coin

Restaurateur and honorary member of The WineHunter team

With a distinguished career as a restaurateur, his collaboration with Helmuth Koecher in 1992 contributed to the founding of the prestigious Merano WineFestival. He is a great expert and enthusiast in the wine and gastronomic world.

WineHunter Scout for The WineHunter Award since 1993.

E-mail: Mario Coin

Mauro Bertolli

Journalist and director of italiadelvino.com.

For years a prominent figure in wine communication. Founder and director of italiadelvino.com, he is known as an influential wine-blogger. Since 2013, he has been writing the weekly column "Andar per vini", published online on Sole24.

WineHunter Scout for The WineHunter Award since 2000.

E-mail: Mauro Bertolli

Monia Zanette

Taster at international competitions

Collaborates with various guides and journals, marking presence at major industry fairs. Conducts tastings and stands out as a teacher at the Verona Enological School.

WineHunter Scout for The WineHunter Award since 2021.

E-mail: Monia Zanette

Roberto Calderan

Sommelier and Taster for various guides for over twenty years

Sommelier and taster recognized by various guides for over twenty years. His professional experience is rooted in the banking world, creating a unique and fascinating union between finance and wine.

WineHunter Scout for The WineHunter Award since 1993.

E-mail: Roberto Calderan

Simona Geri

Sole administrator of The Winesetter company

Manages a blog of the same name and specializes in digital communication, collaborating with wineries, press offices, and wine events as a media partner, content creator, and wine taster.

WineHunter Scout for The WineHunter Award since 2022.

E-mail: Simona Geri