Our Story
The story behind Art is Wine.
Our story
Max and Nino, lifelong friends who have known each other since birth, bonded over their shared passions for wine and entrepreneurship. Their story began on a spontaneous road trip through Italy, a country both had long admired for its rich culture and winemaking heritage. While exploring Italy’s scenic landscapes, from rolling vineyards to charming, historic wineries, they were captivated by the artistry and tradition of local winemakers.
It was during this adventure that the idea for Devinita was born—a company dedicated to bringing the extraordinary wines of Italy back to the Netherlands. They sought out wines that reflect the unique terroirs of the Italian countryside, from lesser-known grape varieties to innovative winemaking techniques. More than just importers, Max and Nino have a mission to unearth hidden gems of Italian viticulture and introduce them to Dutch wine enthusiasts.
Devinita quickly gained recognition, supplying high-quality Italian wines to some of the most prestigious restaurants in the Netherlands, including several Michelin-starred establishments. Their approach is rooted in sustainability, partnering with organic wineries to champion both exceptional wines and a greener future.
The beginning
The idea for Art is Wine had been brewing for years. Max, who studied at the Utrecht School of the Arts (HKU), has always had a deep connection with the world of art, and both he and Nino shared a passion for combining wine with cultural experiences. Early on, their first wine tastings with Devinita were held in art galleries, and they even hosted a wine-and-art pairing event in Switzerland that was met with overwhelming enthusiasm.
Inspired by these experiences and their love for both art and wine, they decided to bring the two together in a more meaningful way. Art is Wine was created to offer a blend of both worlds—exclusive wine tastings hosted in art galleries, where the atmosphere and sensory experience elevate both the wine and the art. The concept bridges Max and Nino’s passions, combining fine wines with the creativity and inspiration of the visual arts, creating an entirely new way to experience both.
Our mission
At Art is Wine, our mission is to connect people through a shared appreciation for art and wine. We believe in creating curated cultural experiences that blend fine wine education with immersive art. Whether it’s an exclusive gallery wine tasting or an event where wine is paired with specific artworks, our goal is to provide a multi-sensory journey that fosters human connection and sparks creativity.
We aim to offer more than just an evening of tastings or art viewings; we strive to cultivate meaningful experiences where people come together, learn, and engage with both the cultural richness of art and the deep complexity of wine. In a world that often feels rushed and superficial, we offer a moment to pause, reflect, and enjoy an immersive experience that feeds both the mind and the senses.
By hosting our events in the finest art galleries, we hope to inspire curiosity and foster a deeper appreciation for the stories behind both the wines we taste and the artworks we admire.