SylviaItaly
… stands for certified Fisar Sommelier, wine lover, Italy expert and runner. A Dutch lady from Rotterdam with all kinds of work experiences to know Italy inside out: from waitress to professional sommelier.
Mi presento
My name is Sylvia. I left my heart in Italy after a holiday in Umbria. To get to know the country better I decided in 2003 to backpack traveling from north to south Italy for 9 months.
When I came back from my Italian packpacking experience I became an active member of the management of Dante Alighieri Rotterdam to keep the Italian feeling and travel experiences alive. I kept dreaming of a return to Italy.
After an advertisement in the local newspaper for a job in Trentino my life dramatically changed. I applied and I found work as an allround employee in a wonderful mountain estate with views over the Garda Lake. In 2009 I moved to Trentino for a new life in Italy.
At 1200m above sea level, I served the best local dishes and I learned how to make a cappuccino and Spritz like a real Italian barista. I had a beautiful life in Trentino, but I hungered for more…
After my working period in Trentino, I went to Tuscany, Umbria and Val di Fassa to experience as many different jobs as possible.
Villa in Umbria
Since 2014 I work for Villa in Umbria. Villa in Umbria mediates between house owners in Umbria and tourists looking for a holiday home. Umbria is the green heart of Italy and a true paradise for truffle, wine and olive oil lovers. In Umbria there are lovely hills and natural green parks.
Umbria is a place of peace and tranquility, an ideal location for those who love nature, culture and authentic food. If you want to avoid mass tourism during your holiday Umbria is the best choice!
Wine Industry
I am a commercial agent for some top wineries in Italy: Gattavecchi Poggio alla Sala Quotidiano Eredi Trevisan Piandacolli Toffoli Prosecco and Sada
I am the link between the wine producer and wine importer/buyer from wholesalers. I mediate between both sides to keep them informed about the lates wine trends and offer.
I am a certified Fisar sommelier: Federazione Italiana Sommelier Albergatori Ristoratori. Fisar Sommelier is an officially recognized diploma. Fisar offers official wine courses throughout Italy.
The nicest part of being a sommelier are the technical rules and traditions of serving the wine!
I personally know the wineries I work with. Over the past years we’ve built good work relationships and confidence. We aim for the same goal: sell top wines at honest prices for both the producer and the consumer.
Wine and Food Experience
Since 2018 I organise a Wine and Food Experience in Montepulciano Tuscany together with the Gattavecchi winery.
After a guided tour at the Piazza Grande where I explain some of the history of Montepulciano and its famous wine Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (not te be confused with the wine Montepulciano d’Abruzzo) we walk to one of the most important wine cellars in Montepulciano for the Wine and Food Experience.
The Wine and Food Experience consists of four wonderful quality wines from the region paired with local Tuscan cuisine.
My favorite wine? Without any doubt Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva from the winery Gattavecchi.
