About Luciano

Luciano's love affair with wine began not in a tasting room, but at the dinner table, where food, conversation, and a well-chosen bottle have always been inseparable. Born in the Dominican Republic and shaped by years of travel across Europe, South America, and beyond, he brings a global palate and an eye for the details that transform a trip from good to unforgettable.

A Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers of America, Luciano founded Elliano Wine Journeys to share what he believes wine travel can be at its best: deeply educational, impeccably executed, and unapologetically luxurious. His background as founder of Elliano Design, a luxury interior design practice, reflects the same sensibility he brings to every journey. Beauty matters. Details matter. The difference between good and extraordinary is always in the execution.

He believes wine education should be rigorous but never intimidating, and that the path to expertise is paved with curiosity, good questions, and plenty of practice.

When he's not scouting vineyards in Burgundy or refining an itinerary down to the perfect lunch stop, you'll find him in Minneapolis with his threeCavalier King Charles Spaniels, probably planning the next adventure.

A man standing in a wine cellar next to stacked wine barrels, with a brick wall behind him displaying the logo 'Domaine Nadine Ferrand' and some decorative rocks on the floor.

About Claid

Claid, based in the Philippines, is a highly adaptable Virtual Assistant with strong experience supporting businesses and entrepreneurs behind the scenes. From managing schedules and coordinating projects to handling detailed administrative and operational tasks, he ensures that the moving pieces at Elliano run smoothly. From streamlined processes to providing constant support, Claid allows Luciano to stay focused on clients and trips as much as possible.

Claid works across various time zones. You’ll find him in meetings in Central Time, but he also pops in during the evening and overnight as needed. As such, we appreciate your patience on his response times. Although, usually, he stays a step ahead.

With a commitment to professionalism, discretion, and efficiency, Claid takes pride in being the steady presence working behind the scenes to help projects and the company succeed.