As you may know, iDealwine has opened an office in New York to provide an even better service to customers in the Americas. Roman has just moved to the city himself to run the office but many of you based across the pond are likely to have already been in contact with him. To help you get to know the person who is your port of call for any questions or request for advice, we’ve interviewed Roman. His answers reveal the wine enthusiast anyone would want by their side when choosing wine.

Hello Roman! Can you tell us a little about yourself please?

I’m a curious and open-minded person who loves life and everything it has to offer – good food, great friends, music, breathtaking landscapes, and last but not least: fishing. I’m a hard worker, always on the lookout for new opportunities, experiences, and meaningful connections.

Wine is a huge passion of mine. From the vineyard to the cellar, I find joy in every step of the process. I especially like the viticultural side, working alongside the vines, pruning them and tending to the land, because I truly believe that great wine is made, before all else, in the vineyard. That’s where the real magic begins! Working on two vintages, one in Bordeaux and the other in New Zealand, was so important to me to fully understand the winemaking process.

How did you come to work in wine?

I was studying biology in Bordeaux, driving through the vineyards every day, when one moment changed everything; I walked through my very first cellar door. I was lucky enough that it happened to be at Château Haut-Brion. I was instantly captivated, not only by the architecture and the history that emanated from the place, but by the soul I felt in the vines. There was something truly special there, something that spoke to me deeply.

That encounter stayed with me. I started asking winemakers in Bordeaux about the different roles and opportunities in the wine world. My curiosity quickly turned into a passion; I couldn’t resist the pull; I wanted to be part of this world where everyone seemed genuinely enthusiastic.

Everything about it felt alive, meaningful, and endlessly fascinating.

What is your role at iDealwine?

I’m the US Market Manager which means that I am iDealwine’s point of contact for the US market. It’s an incredibly diverse role, and that’s exactly what I love about it.

My first responsibility is to guide our customers through the wines we offer, ensuring they receive expert advice and that the purchasing experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
After that, I manage the logistics side of things: making sure packaging is secure enough for transatlantic shipping, handling export documents, coordinating with our transporter, and working closely with our supply team to keep everything running smoothly. Once shipments are on their way, I follow them at every step of the journey. Another essential part of my role is business development and growing our presence in the US market.

Finally, a significant aspect of my work is dedicated to our key accounts. These discerning wine enthusiasts expect a high level of personalised services. My goal is to immerse myself in their world, understand their preferences, and provide them with a tailor-made experience, from curating selections to offering expert advice that aligns with their taste and expectations.

What attracted you to iDealwine?

Every French wine lover knows that iDealwine is the go-to place for discovering fine and rare wines, often ready to drink and sourced with incredible care. Having the opportunity to represent such an outstanding company, one that works hand-in-hand with top producers and is powered by a team of true wine enthusiasts, was simply impossible for me to pass up. It’s a privilege to be part of a business that shares my passion and brings exceptional wines to fellow wine lovers around the world.

Why is iDealwine opening an office in New York the same week that new tariffs come into force?

The timing may seem surprising, but it’s actually the result of a plan that was set in motion more than seven months ago. Opening our New York office is a long-term strategic decision that goes beyond short-term policy changes. The USA remains one of the largest and most dynamic wine markets in the world and a key wine-making region for many of the finest producers.

Even with new tariffs, the potential here is simply too great to ignore. American wine lovers are among the most passionate and curious globally, and there’s still strong demand for fine and rare wines. Furthermore, iDealwine still offers competitive prices despite the new 10% tariffs and the range of wines on the website is second to none. We believe that being on the ground in New York allows us to better support our existing customers, build new partnerships, and continue growing despite the challenges. In our view, it’s precisely during complex times like these that having a local presence becomes most valuable.

What is your most recent wine discovery?

The timing of this question couldn’t be better! Just last week, I had the most extraordinary dinner of my life. I had the immense privilege of tasting some of the greatest wines on the planet, and a few of them left an unforgettable impression on me.

For white wines, the standout was a 1997 Corton-Charlemagne from Coche-Dury, a wine of breathtaking complexity, roasted hazelnuts and white flowers with that signature tautness between richness and minerality.

As for red wines, I honestly can’t choose between two absolutely legendary bottles. The first was a 1937 Cheval Blanc, tasted blind, and I would never, never have guessed the vintage. It was still so alive: floral, vibrant, elegant, with an incredible freshness. The second was a 1989 Vosne-Romanée Les Beaumonts from Henri Jayer. It was simply the purest expression of Pinot Noir I’ve ever experienced: graceful, precise, and my new definition of ELEGANCE.

These are the kinds of moments that remind you just how magical wine can be.

What is your favourite wine region?

This one is SO tough. I honestly can’t choose just one. Each region brings something unique, and I love them for different reasons. For white wines, Burgundy is unmatched in my eyes. For reds, I’m torn between the complexityof mature Rhône vintages and mature Bordeaux. Both regions have shaped my palate.

What is your favourite wine and food pairing?

Easy, a delicious duck breast with a mushroom paired with a Cote Rotie from Jamet that’s at least 10 years old. Simply sublime!

What bottle do you dream of tasting?

Good question ! I’d say a 1945 Romanée-Conti from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti to fully understand the legend that surrounds this wine.

What are some of the estates you’ve visited?

Wow! I visited so many! Of course, there are many in Bordeaux where I’m from such as Château Smith Haut Lafitte (a wonderful place, we usually go there for my mum’s birthday lunch), Domaine de Chevalier and Château Cheval Blanc. I also enjoyed my visit to Henri Boillot in Volnay, where I could taste his spectacular red and white Burgundies. Being the wine lover that I am, I have also visited many more estates in New Zealand, the Loire Valley, Spain, South Africa, Alsace, Italy, Rhône, Languedoc…