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Meet Our Team


Behind the Scenes at Zepeim

At Zepeim, we pride ourselves on being the most trusted non alcoholic wine and spirits distributor in the U.S., but it’s our dedicated team of professionals that truly sets us apart. With years of industry experience, our team is committed to providing our partners with the expertise, guidance, and service they need to thrive in the growing non-alcoholic market. Meet the individuals who make Zepeim the leader in non-alcoholic wine and beverage distribution.

Ioritz Blanco

Co-Founder | Non-Alcoholic Beverage Visionary & Guru | B2B Non-Alcoholic Category Pro

Ioritz Blanco, the visionary behind Zepeim LLC, started his journey in the non-alcoholic space back in 2016 when he sought out non-alcoholic alternatives for his pregnant sister-in-law. What began as a personal mission has since evolved into Zepeim, one of the leading importers and distributors of premium non-alcoholic beverages in the U.S.


As a firm believer in collaboration and innovation, Ioritz works closely with trailblazing makers and pioneers in the non-alc category, consistently pushing boundaries to introduce fresh ideas to the market. His passion lies in educating both consumers and businesses about the untapped potential of the non-alcoholic industry.


With a strong background in logistics and B2B strategy, Ioritz has built a reputation as a relationship builder, seamlessly managing customer and vendor relationships while streamlining operations. His optimistic outlook, combined with his strategic mindset, has positioned Zepeim as a leader in the non-alcoholic beverage space, focusing on growth, market education, and category innovation.

Brian Jenq

Co-Founder | Non-Alcoholic Beverage Guru | Non-Alcoholic Wine D2C Specialist | Operations Expert | Non-Alcoholic Wine Category Pro

Brian is a driving force behind the company’s direct-to-consumer success in the non-alcoholic beverage industry. With extensive experience in D2C sales through platforms like Amazon and other eCommerce channels, Brian has established himself as a specialist in navigating the rapidly evolving consumer marketplace.


As an operations expert, Brian oversees the efficient distribution of products across the United States, ensuring smooth and timely deliveries. His attention to detail, combined with his deep understanding of consumer trends, makes him an invaluable asset in shaping Zepeim's offerings to meet market demands.


Brian's practical, no-nonsense approach to business allows him to work closely with brands, helping them succeed in the D2C space. A deal maker and solutions provider, Brian is relentless in finding innovative ways to optimize operations and drive growth, making him a key player in Zepeim's continued success.

Andrea Nittoli

Outside Sales Rep | On-Premise Non-Alc Expert | Luxury Non-Alcoholic Menu Builder | Non-Alcoholic Beverage Solutions Consultant

Andrea Nittoli is Zepeim’s go-to expert for on-premise non-alcoholic solutions, specializing in fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, and country clubs. With a deep understanding of the high-end market, Andrea is passionate about crafting luxury non-alcoholic menus that elevate the dining experience.


Known for her exceptional relationship-building skills, Andrea stays ahead of consumer trends, functioning as Zepeim's eyes and ears in the field. Her dedication to customer success is unwavering, as she seamlessly coordinates Zepeim’s resources to ensure that every partnership is a win for both sides. Whether it’s introducing new products or enhancing existing offerings, Andrea’s strategic approach and industry insight help Zepeim’s clients thrive in the growing non-alcoholic beverage space.

Genesis Figueroa

Non-Alcoholic Customer Success Specialist | Beverage Logistics Expert | Team Support

Genesis Figueroa is Zepeim’s go-to resource for ensuring smooth operations across the board. As our Non-Alc Customer Success Specialist, Beverage Logistics Specialist, and Team Support, Genesis plays a crucial role in keeping everything running seamlessly behind the scenes.


Working closely with our Sales Team, Genesis provides vital inside support to ensure that our clients receive exceptional service at every touchpoint. Whether managing logistics, coordinating deliveries, or assisting with day-to-day operations, her attention to detail and commitment to excellence ensure that Zepeim’s processes are efficient and reliable.


Genesis’s expertise makes her an indispensable part of the team, and her passion for supporting both clients and colleagues keeps Zepeim’s operations flowing smoothly.

Emily Rutan

Certified Sommelier | Non-Alc Tasting Guru | Suber Curious Curator | Chief Flavor Consultant | Non-Alc Menu Builder

Emily Rutan is a Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry. She has crafted her expertise at some of Los Angeles’ finest dining establishments, including The Tasting Kitchen, Terroni, and Verse.


As Zepeim’s Chief Flavor Consultant and Non-Alcoholic Beverage Strategist, Emily brings her deep knowledge of traditional wines to the non-alcoholic space, curating exceptional alcohol-free tasting experiences that rival their alcoholic counterparts. Her passion for creating innovative, health-conscious alternatives has positioned her as a leader in the sober-curious movement, especially when it comes to non-alcoholic wines.


With her refined palate and dedication to exploring new flavors, Emily ensures that Zepeim remains at the forefront of the non-alcoholic beverage revolution, providing our clients with unparalleled guidance and tasting expertise.

Why Zepeim?

At Zepeim, it’s not just about the amazing non alcoholic wines and spirits we carry—it’s about the relationships. Our team’s commitment to your success goes beyond distribution. We provide personalized consultations, expert pairing advice, regulatory compliance guidance, and much more. When you partner with Zepeim, you’re partnering with a team that cares about your growth and the quality of your offerings.

Case Scenarios

Examples of how we can help.

Scenario 1: Expanding a Restaurant’s Non-Alcoholic Menu


Zepeim’s certified sommelier, Emily Rutan, steps in to curate a selection of premium non-alcoholic wines that align with the restaurant’s high standards. Emily conducts a staff training session to educate the team on the tasting profiles of each wine and how to recommend them confidently to diners. Weekly virtual tastings are set up for continuous learning, ensuring the restaurant stays up to date on the best non-alcoholic options. The result is an expanded menu that attracts a broader audience and garners positive reviews.

Scenario 3: Private Label Development for an Online Retailer


Zepeim provides private label development services, helping the retailer with everything from sourcing premium non-alcoholic wines from international producers to selecting packaging designs that appeal to the target market. Zepeim handles all the logistics, including regulatory compliance and shipping, allowing the retailer to seamlessly launch its private label. The result is a unique, branded line that enhances the retailer’s reputation for offering premium, health-conscious products.

Scenario 5: Boosting D2C Sales for a Non-Alcoholic Brand


Zepeim’s D2C specialist, Brian Jenq, works with the brand to optimize their Amazon listings through Amazon Brand Registry, A+ content creation, and enhanced product descriptions. Brian also implements targeted advertising campaigns on the platform to increase visibility and drive traffic. Over a few months, the brand sees significant growth in sales and stronger customer engagement.

Scenario 2: Retailer Needs Reliable Supplier for Growing Non-Alcoholic Demand


Zepeim partners with the retailer, offering access to their extensive portfolio of non-alcoholic wines from top European brands. Zepeim handles the logistics and ensures a steady supply of products to meet growing demand. Additionally, Zepeim works closely with the retailer to curate product selections based on customer preferences, ensuring that the retailer is stocked with the best-selling, high-demand items.

Scenario 4: Overcoming Supply Chain Challenges for a Growing Restaurant Group


Zepeim steps in to offer a streamlined supply chain solution. With Zepeim’s established logistics network, the restaurant group receives consistent deliveries, ensuring that their non-alcoholic beverage options are always available. In addition, Zepeim offers product consultation, updating the restaurant’s non-alcoholic offerings to include more popular and unique selections, helping them stand out in a competitive market.

Scenario 6: Sourcing Sustainable, Organic Non-Alcoholic Wines for an Eco-Friendly Shop


Zepeim offers a curated selection of organic non-alcoholic wines sourced from sustainable vineyards across Europe. The wines align with the shop’s eco-conscious values. Additionally, Zepeim provides marketing materials highlighting the sustainability aspects of the wines, helping the shop promote the products to its eco-minded customers. This not only increases the shop’s product offerings but also strengthens its brand identity as a purveyor of sustainable goods.