Giuliano Rossi Leads Vinarius Into a New Era of Italian Wine Shops

The world of Italian wine shops is experiencing a pivotal moment as Giuliano Rossi takes the helm of Vinarius, the Association of Italian Wine Shops. Known for his expertise as a sommelier, restaurateur, and entrepreneur, Rossi brings both tradition and innovation to an association that represents the finest tasting-focused wine shops across Italy. His presidency marks a new chapter for Vinarius, blending the heritage of Italian wine with modern vision and global ambitions.

A Legacy of Leadership and Education

Rossi succeeds Andrea Terraneo, who served as president for twelve transformative years. Under Terraneo’s guidance, Vinarius became a hub for education, cultural promotion, and professional growth. He initiated internships, organized educational trips across Italian and European wine regions, and established an Observatory that provided key insights into the wine industry. His tenure fostered collaboration among wine shop owners, creating a vibrant network built on knowledge and shared passion.

Terraneo’s achievements laid the foundation for Rossi, who now steps into this role with deep respect and a forward-looking vision. Rossi has described his commitment as a promise to represent all aspects of the Italian wine shop experience, from sales and tasting to education and cultural storytelling.

From Roman Roots to Global Ambitions

Born in Rome in 1971, Giuliano Rossi embodies the essence of Italian wine culture. His journey began in Piazza Esedra at the historic Odeon Bar Café-Concert, founded by his great-grandparents in 1915. This landmark venue was a gathering place for generations and inspired Rossi to create a career that honors family tradition while embracing modern entrepreneurship.

Since 2001, Rossi has managed La Fiaschetta, his wine shop and restaurant, and in 2020, he expanded his vision with The Garage Bistrot. His expertise extends beyond wine into olive oil and cuisine, holding titles as an EVO Oil Sommelier and Executive Chef. Rossi’s professional development includes training as a FIS Sommelier in 2004 and completing the Executive Master Sommelier program in 2019.

On June 2, 2025, Rossi celebrated a symbolic return to his family roots by reopening the Café Odeon Bar à Vin in Marina di San Nicola, exactly 110 years after the original inauguration. This milestone reflects Rossi’s dedication to intertwining history with innovation, creating spaces where wine becomes an experience to share and a story to savor.

A Voice for Wine Shops With On-Site Tasting

For the first time, the presidency of Vinarius highlights the authentic voice of wine shops with on-site tasting. Rossi is the first Roman president from this category since Marco Trimani led the association in the early 1990s. His appointment underscores the inseparable bond between wine and hospitality, elevating the sensory and cultural experience of wine consumption.

Rossi envisions Vinarius as more than an association. He aims to strengthen the network of Italian wine shops, provide ongoing professional training, and position Italian wine as a heritage that resonates worldwide. His leadership emphasizes the role of wine shops as cultural hubs where education, tasting, and connection merge seamlessly.

A Board Focused on Excellence and Growth

The new Vinarius Board is a diverse team of leaders from across Italy. Vice Presidents Domenico Terruli and Silvia Angelozzi represent the Wine Shops Section, while other board members include Carlo Gargiulo, Fabrizio Fucile, Luca De Martini, Cosimo Chisena, Filippo Gastaldi, Andrea Gaviglio, Gianluca Tombacco, and Cristian Stringhetto.

This collaborative leadership is poised to face the challenges of today with renewed energy. By fostering cooperation among wine shops, the board seeks to elevate local territories, enhance professional expertise, and create opportunities that reinforce Italy’s position as a global wine destination.

Bridging Tradition and Innovation

Rossi’s presidency symbolizes a balance between tradition and modernity. His Roman heritage, family history in hospitality, and extensive professional training provide him with unique insight into both the cultural and business dimensions of wine. At the same time, his vision for Vinarius embraces innovation, international engagement, and the evolving expectations of wine consumers.

The reopening of Café Odeon Bar à Vin exemplifies this philosophy. Rossi honors the past while designing a contemporary space that encourages tasting, learning, and social connection. It is a living testament to his belief that wine shops should serve as cultural institutions as much as commercial enterprises.

Promoting Italian Wine as Heritage and Experience

Under Rossi’s leadership, Vinarius will continue to champion the idea that wine is more than a beverage. It is a story, a heritage, and a cultural experience that connects communities and generations. From curated tastings to educational programs, the association will strengthen its commitment to quality, authenticity, and knowledge.

Rossi believes that the future of Italian wine shops depends on maintaining excellence while embracing change. By investing in education, enhancing professional standards, and promoting cultural appreciation, Vinarius will ensure that Italian wine shops remain relevant, respected, and celebrated worldwide.

A Vision for Global Recognition

Rossi’s approach extends beyond Italy. By highlighting the unique qualities of Italian wine shops and their cultural significance, he aims to create global awareness of Italy’s rich wine heritage. Whether through international collaborations, cultural exchanges, or educational initiatives, Rossi intends to position Vinarius as a global ambassador for Italian wine.

The combination of expertise, passion, and visionary leadership positions Vinarius for a future of growth, influence, and prestige. Rossi’s presidency promises to elevate Italian wine shops to new heights, honoring tradition while inspiring innovation.

Giuliano Rossi’s appointment as President of Vinarius marks a defining moment for Italian wine shops. His blend of tradition, innovation, and global perspective sets the stage for a new era of excellence, education, and cultural promotion. Rossi embodies the soul of Italian wine, ensuring that every tasting, every visit, and every story shared in Vinarius wine shops continues to resonate as part of Italy’s enduring legacy.

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