My wine journey began in Moldova — at the ripe age of five — when I accidentally got drunk on fermenting grape must. (Don’t worry, it was research.) Ever since, I’ve never really stopped exploring the world through a glass.

Before pouring drinks, I was pouring words: a professional theatre actor and TV reporter, trained to hold a stage, capture an audience, and tell stories that stick. For the past decade, London has been my stage and the drinks world my script — from wine and Champagne to sake, shochu, and whisky.

Today, I’m the Director of Wine & Sake at The Aubrey, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London, where I curate one of the city’s most exciting drinks programmes. My role? To entertain guests not only with what’s in their glass, but with the stories behind it — weaving history, culture, and humour into every pour.

I also hold the WSET Diploma in Wine and WSET Level 3 Award in Sake, credentials that allow me to combine formal expertise with a passion for storytelling and discovery.

Because for me, drinks are more than just flavours and aromas — they’re experiences. And whether I’m leading a masterclass, sabering a bottle of Champagne, or guiding guests through the magic of sake, my mission is simple: to make sure no one leaves thirsty, and definitely not bored.