Sindy Galasso is the CEO of Akra Vini di Calabria. Her academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, a Master’s degree in Interpreting, and a Master’s in International Business.
She has gained experience in the financial sector in London, developing strategic and analytical skills in an international context. Her fluency in English, Spanish, and Standard Arabic allows her to effectively manage relationships with foreign markets and coordinate the company’s internationalization strategies.
Under her leadership, Akra Vini aims to strengthen its presence in international markets, bringing the excellence of Calabrian winemaking beyond national borders.
Fabio Mecca
OENOLOGIST
Fabio Mecca‘s story is one of passion, expertise, and a love for wine, born among the vineyards of Barile, Basilicata, and growing to reach the pinnacle of Italian winemaking. A graduate of Conegliano Veneto, Fabio is now one of the most authoritative and respected voices in the winemaking industry, capable of combining tradition, innovation, and human sensitivity. Today, he is a point of reference for over twenty wineries throughout Italy, including the historic Paternoster, overseeing projects that span the entire country. His style is based on the valorization of native grape varieties and the authenticity of the local area, but what truly makes him unique is his ability to build authentic relationships, guiding companies not only with technical expertise, but with humanity, enthusiasm, and empathy.
Throughout his career, Fabio Mecca has received numerous awards that testify to his professional excellence and impact on the Italian wine scene:
Gran Medaglia di Cangrande – Vinitaly 2013: Awarded as “Benemerito della Vitivinicoltura Italiana” (Benemeritorious of Italian Viticulture) for his significant contribution to the progress of the sector.
Winery Specialist of the Year – Food and Travel Italia 2021: Recognition given for his innovative vision and his dedication to promoting the region.
Giulio Gambelli Award 2022: Dedicated to the best winemaker under 40 in Italy, confirming the national stature of his profession.
“Enologia e Territorio” Award – Wine Awards 2024: Recognition for his ability to combine the quality of wines with the valorization of territorial specificities.
Best Winemaker 2025 – L’Espresso Guide: His most recent achievement, which cements his position of absolute prominence in contemporary winemaking.
Salvatore Branca
COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR
Since 2020, Salvatore Branca has led the commercial division of Tenuta Santa Venere – Akra Vini di Calabria. With an in-depth knowledge of the territory and the unique characteristics of Calabrian winemaking, he serves as a key point of reference for clients and distribution partners.
His professional philosophy is based on the belief that wine is an authentic expression of territory, tradition, and cultural identity. Through a consultative approach and a consistent presence in the field, Salvatore promotes our labels throughout Calabria and across Italy, building long-lasting relationships and highlighting the excellence of our production.
His dedication to quality and his ability to understand market needs make him a credible ambassador of Akra Vini’s values.
Danilo Fiore
BRAND & PARTNERSHIP MANAGER
Danilo Fiore oversees brand management and the development of strategic partnerships for Akra Vini. His role includes maintaining relationships with commercial partners and organizing corporate events, with the goal of communicating the brand’s identity in a consistent and distinctive way.
With a strategic and results-oriented approach, he contributes to strengthening the company’s presence on the market, enhancing the connection between our wines, the Calabrian territory, and the company’s vision. His ability to build strong relationships and turn ideas into tangible projects represents a valuable asset for the growth of Akra Vini.
Ernesto Spezzano
VINEYARD MANAGER
Ernesto is the guardian of our vineyards—a key figure in the daily management of the land and the care of the vines that form the beating heart of our estate.
With long-standing professionalism and meticulous attention to detail, Ernesto supervises all stages of the vegetative cycle, from pruning to harvest, ensuring that each plant receives the care needed to express its full potential.
His deep knowledge of the territory and ability to interpret the needs of each vineyard result in a careful and respectful management approach, where tradition and innovation meet to preserve the quality and authenticity of our grapes.
Always present in the vineyards throughout the year, Ernesto embodies the inseparable bond between our company and the land, ensuring with dedication that every cluster harvested is the fruit of work carried out with passion and expertise.