RutaN is an independent importer and distributor specialising in terroir-driven wines, mainly from France, with touches from Germany, Austria, Slovenia and Italy. Founded and led by Marco Palantrani, of Dutch origin, RutaN was born from a personal journey shaped by curiosity, travel and passion. After more than 30 years in the fashion industry, Marco took a brief detour in 1996 as a wine shop owner, where his love for wine first began. Fashion allowed him to travel extensively, and in his free time he visited wineries and fine restaurants across Europe. In 2003, his first encounter with a natural wine — a bottle of Henri Milan — sparked a deep fascination for the world of artisanal winemaking. Years of fairs and tastings across Europe, together with his friendship with vigneron Maurizio Donadi of Casa Belfi (with whom he co-authored the book MaiDomo), deepened his passion and led him to produce his first wine in 2011. At the same time, Marco collaborated with the Italian food and wine magazine “Di Testa e di Gola”, writing about vignerons, territories and the people behind the wines — strengthening a cultural and human approach to storytelling. In 2022, he made a decisive change, leaving fashion behind to dedicate himself entirely to RutaN. RutaN works exclusively with small, independent producers who practise sustainable farming and low-intervention winemaking, combining savoir-faire, respect for nature and a strong sense of identity. Each wine tells a story of craft, terroir and humanity. Our portfolio includes producers such as Maréchal-Bonnard, Marteaux Guillaume, Anthony Thevenet, Domaine des Grouas, Simon Faure and Liszt, alongside lesser-known but remarkable vignerons chosen for their authenticity and integrity. RutaN distributes exclusively to the Ho.Re.Ca. channel, supporting hosts and restaurateurs who believe in the value of genuine wine. Through the #iobevorutaN project, we protect our partners by avoiding mass-market sales and fostering a fair, transparent distribution model. Through initiatives like #iobevorutaN and Oste RutaN, we promote a convivial culture based on connection, authenticity and mutual respect. Today, RutaN stands as a reference point for those seeking elegant, identity-driven terroir wines that convey emotion and a true sense of place.
Picture by Julian Manuel Ferri