Unfiltered: Luca de Marzio

The owner of Dublin’s Rosa Madre talks to Douglas Blyde about celebrity guests, his love for Tequila, and why he won’t serve Prosecco.

What is your terroir and vintage?

I was born in Rome in the 1983 vintage, from which I remember trying the outstanding Cheval Blanc.

What is the story behind the restaurant’s name?

Rosa Madre is named after my mother. I considered calling it Mamma Rosa, though there were already too many on Google, while Rosa Madre is unique.

What was the first wine to move you?

An unforgettable Valpolicella Superiore by Giuseppe Quintarelli. Every sip was bursting with flavour which changed my perspective forever: I understood wine can be more than a mere drink.

What collections are you most proud of?

From Italy: Gianfranco Soldera, Le Pergole Torte by Montevertine, and from France: Domaine Coche-Dury, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Domaine Emmanuel Rouget, Domaine Georges Roumier, Madame Lalou Bize-Leroy, and Domaine Raveneau.

Is it true your Champagne prices are amongst the best in Ireland?

Yes, my prices are very low. But I had to do this because I never wanted to serve Prosecco, which attracted lots of criticism from my customers. I always believed in quality. Lower prices give a younger crowd, in particular, the opportunity to engage with champagne.

What style do you find it hard to get along with?

I find Sagrantino di Montefalco can be too heavy and concentrated, to the extent I have never been able to finish an entire bottle.

Who is your head chef?

Anisur Rahman is my amazing chef who previously worked in famous restaurants in Milan. He brings so much energy to the team. His creations are simple, seasonal, and colourful.

What has been a standout drink and food match?

Spaghetti with clams paired with Greco di Tufo.

Are you also excited by spirits?

I used to be a bartender and love Tequila.

What have the critics said of the restaurant?

My guests are my critics; every day is an exam, so we constantly work hard.

Do you have celebrity guests?

Yes – Bono, Jamie Fox, Dave Grohl, William Farrell, Michael Fassbender, and Nick Jonas.

How do you relax?

On Sundays, my family goes to play football in the park, and I enjoy a spa day with my wife.

Tell us something surprising about yourself?

I trust my instincts and will give my all to something I believe in until I reach the top.

Who should prospective team members contact if they want to join Rosa Madre?

Contact my manager, Elisabete, who is obsessed with this industry. I recommend that potential team members be polite – imagine they are serving their grandmother. Just be nice to everyone. They will love you back, always!

Rosa Madre – 7 Crow St, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 YT38; t. +353 1 551 1206; rosamadredublin@gmail.com; rosamadre.ie