Born and bred amidst the bustling streets of Rome, Italy, Leonardo Bassano carries the essence of his Roman roots in every aspect of his life. Growing up in the heart of the city, where his family runs a bustling restaurant catering to both locals and tourists, Leonardo's early exposure to the culinary world laid the foundation for his eventual journey into the realm of wine.

Despite being the first in his family to venture into the wine industry, Leonardo's fascination with wine blossomed from a young age, nurtured by the vibrant atmosphere of his family's restaurant. While his father and uncle may not have shared his enthusiasm for wine, Leonardo found himself drawn to its complexities and nuances, weaving it seamlessly into the fabric of his life.

After completing his education, Leonardo embarked on a voyage to London, where he immersed himself in the diverse tapestry of the city's culinary scene. Working in various pubs and restaurants, he honed his palate and developed a deep appreciation for wines from around the world.

Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a desire to delve deeper into the world of wine, Leonardo pursued a degree in Social Psychology and Marketing upon his return to Italy. Armed with a newfound understanding of consumer behavior and marketing strategies, he set his sights on a career that would blend his passion for wine with his expertise in business.

Leonardo's journey into the wine industry truly took flight when he joined Davy’s Wine Bars, where he embarked on a voyage of discovery, exploring the intricacies of wines from diverse regions and grape varieties. His dedication to mastering the art of wine led him to pursue the esteemed WSET Diploma, a journey that saw him ascend through levels 1 to 4, culminating in a comprehensive understanding of wine production, tasting, and appreciation.

As his career progressed, Leonardo's expertise caught the attention of industry leaders, leading him to roles at Majestic and Enotria, where he immersed himself in the intricacies of wine marketing and procurement. It was during this time that he cultivated a profound appreciation for Italian wines, drawing from his deep understanding of Italy's rich cultural heritage and winemaking traditions.

In December 2017, Leonardo found himself drawn to the allure of Laithwaite’s, captivated by its family-owned ethos, consumer-centric approach, and robust marketing strategies. Embracing his role with fervor, he dedicated himself to championing Italian wines while also expanding his repertoire to include wines from Chile and Argentina.

Leonardo's passion for wine knows no bounds, with his top wine experiences ranging from tasting his first Amarone with friends to discovering the exquisite nuances of Montrachet at Davy’s Wine Bars. His affinity for Barolo, Nebbiolo wines, and Aglianico is matched only by his adventurous spirit, as he continues to curate a selection that caters to both seasoned connoisseurs and intrepid explorers of the wine world.

In June 2021, Leonardo returned to London after a brief sojourn in Rome, ready to embrace new challenges and opportunities. Since October 2023, he has served as Senior Buyer, overseeing a diverse portfolio that spans Austria, Germany, Beaujolais, Loire, Spirits, and Beer, with Argentina soon to join his purview. As he charts the course for the future, Leonardo remains steadfast in his commitment to sharing his passion for wine with the world, one bottle at a time.