FOUR FRIENDS IN OLTREPÒ
Who Wanted to Change the World
It all started with a bus ride and an unstoppable desire to discover something new.Amedeo and Alberto had known each other forever, growing up in the same town and being friends since they were kids. One day, at fifteen, they decided to break free from their usual routine: two days away, backpacks on their shoulders, heading for Oltrepò. Destination: Poggiolo. Their first adventure together, their first real discovery of a land that—without knowing it—would become part of our story.Today, our company’s registered office is right there, in Poggiolo. Coincidence? Maybe. Or maybe not.Then came Luca. We met him a few years later, but one weekend was all it took to become inseparable. And once again, right there in Oltrepò, the group of friends met Sara—originally from Calabria, adopted by Milan, and a sommelier in search of new discoveries.
Today we are four—Amedeo, Alberto, Luca, and Sara—a group of friends who chose to turn the roots of a genuine friendship into a real project. We love good wine, authentic products, and true stories. Oltrepò has given us so much, and we want to give something back by celebrating its food and wine heritage with passion and respect.
What binds us together is more than just an idea: it is a story of friendship that has taken root among the hills, vineyards, and flavours of this land.
Sara Laurendi
An unstoppable explorer and curious traveler, Sara is drawn to places, cultures, traditions, and authentic stories.
This passion led her to deepen her interest in wine and become a FISAR sommelier in 2023.
Her experience and sensitivity are key in evaluating and tailoring selections, giving life to unique products that combine elegance and authenticity.
Professionally, she has built solid expertise in the FMCG sector, holding various roles across Marketing and Sales functions.
“A place that made me fall in love in every possible way.”
Alberto Varesi
The dreamer of the group, Alberto was born amidst the unspoiled nature of Oltrepò Pavese and knows it intimately.
He was the one who first led the group of friends to explore the area since childhood.
His deep connection with and knowledge of the land make him a key point of reference for sourcing and selecting local excellence.
Today, he manages the family business, which has been active in the beverage sector for decades, always with a keen eye on quality and innovation.
“A magical place, a gentle guardian of my family’s memories.”
Amedeo Pagnotta
With extensive experience in the corporate world and a deep passion for food and wine, Amedeo is the entrepreneurial engine of Brilùs.
His strategic and operational vision turns the selection process into a product that is new, intriguing, and ready for the market.
His ability to combine quality with commercial appeal makes him essential in creating the bridge between Brilùs’ innovative philosophy and its final audience.
“Oltrepò is a captivating blend of fragrances and flavours.”
Luca Galmozzi
Passionate about geography, nature, and anthropology, Luca is an experienced traveler with a natural gift for discovering unexplored territories.
His curiosity drives him to seek out hidden gems and unique producers who work with passion and respect for tradition and the land — a true compass that ensures a selection that is both consistent and authentic.
He also manages his Milan-based company, which specializes in the production and distribution of premium food-grade ice.
“It’s the place that saw me grow up, amidst deep friendships, unique loves, and shared passions.”