Oleksandra Minenko-Decamps #170
A Passionate Ambassador of Wine
For Oleksandra Minenko-Decamps, wine is more than a beverage—it is a connection that unites people across cultures and traditions. As an Ambassador of Dijon Bourgogne and the Climats du Vignoble de Bourgogne Patrimoine Mondial, she plays a vital role in promoting the rich heritage of Burgundy wines.
Her expertise is widely recognized, making her a sought-after jury member in prestigious international and local wine and spirits competitions, including Concours International de Lyon, Frankfurt Trophy, Concours Féminalise, Concours Bourgogne, Concours des Grands Vins de Mâcon, and Concours Général Agricole. She continuously expands her knowledge through education with OIV Blockchain and active participation in the World Congress OIV 2024.
In addition to her extensive contributions to the wine industry, Oleksandra is the founder of Wine Egoist, a unique wine concept that reflects her deep passion and commitment to the world of wine.
From Burgundy with Love
Oleksandra Minenko-Decamps was one of the pioneers who introduced the world of French wine—especially the treasures of Burgundy—to Kyiv and Ukraine. Her boutique, Wine Egoist, became a haven where wine lovers discovered and fell in love with the elegance and depth of Burgundy wines. Thanks to her passion and dedication, French classics found a special place in the hearts of Ukrainian connoisseurs.
Promoting French and Ukrainian Wines with Expertise
A highly qualified wine expert, Oleksandra holds a WSET diploma, a French national diploma in international marketing, wine and alcohol sales, enotourism, and oenology. She also earned a degree from the University of Trade and Economics. Her expertise and relentless enthusiasm have made her a key figure in promoting not only French winemaking—particularly the renowned Côte d’Or region—but also Ukraine as a rising wine country on the global stage.
For Oleksandra, winemaking is deeply personal. She never forgets her roots, believing that true wine knowledge goes beyond awards and titles. “You can list all the wine accolades and achievements,” she says, “but if you don’t understand the land, the hard work of the winemaker, and everything that revolves around it, then you don’t truly know winemaking.”
A Journey from Ukraine to Burgundy: A Life Shaped by Wine
Oleksandra Minenko-Decamps’ love for winemaking began in her childhood, rooted in cherished family traditions. She fondly recalls those early moments:
“Everyone has childhood memories and first experiences—I am no exception. Our family home in the Ukrainian countryside was like a nest, a place where traditions were passed down. My grandparents always made their own wine, and I would watch and even help in small ways. I can’t remember a single family gathering without wine or homemade liqueurs from their cellar. That’s probably where my passion for this world began.”
Before entering the wine industry, Oleksandra worked in the tea business in Sri Lanka. The experience, though different, had surprising similarities to the world of wine.
“I loved picking tea leaves on the plantations and learning about the technology and culture behind tea. Interacting with the locals added depth to this refined beverage. Tourists often visited, and I enjoyed guiding them, sharing stories about the region,” she recalls.
During this time, she also began working as a freelancer with Austrian wines, exploring the industry. However, when civil war broke out in Sri Lanka, she was forced to return home. Eventually, she found herself in France, where she became completely captivated by Burgundy and its wine culture.
Her journey in France took her from studying and working at wineries to promoting winemakers and the region. She sought clients for the prestigious Hospices de Beaune auction, participated in international exhibitions, and attracted wine lovers and tourists to Burgundy. Her efforts earned her the prestigious title of Dijon Ambassador, a role dedicated to promoting the city’s cultural, educational, tourism, and wine sectors.
Yet, no matter where she goes, Oleksandra never forgets her roots. She is on a mission to remind the world that Ukraine is a wine country, too. As an ambassador for Burgundy, she bridges two worlds, uniting them through her passion for wine. After all, great wine always brings people together.
