Interview with David Sandu, The Stone Winery (Crama de Piatra)

David Sandu is the administrator and oenologist of Crama de Piatra SRL and FOOD & WINE SRL, both based in the commune of Vadu Sapat, Prahova County. Crama de Piatră focuses on the production and sale of grape wines, while FOOD & WINE provides hotel accommodation and public dining services. Both companies operate at the Crama de Piatra (Stone Winery) location in the Dealu Mare wine region, one of the most important viticultural areas in Southeastern Europe. Founded in 2020, the two companies have grown to a total of 25 employees and have consistently created new jobs.

C&B: How would you describe yourself in one sentence to those who don’t know you yet?

David Sandu: I believe I’m someone you can achieve a lot with. I’m often multitasking and never shy away from anything. I enjoy challenges and tough situations because I constantly learn from them. I’m always focused on my personal development, as well as the growth of my businesses, since whatever I do for myself has a major impact on them.

C&B: What were the key moments that defined your career?

David Sandu: The most important moment was in 2019 when I left Bucharest and moved to Vadu Săpat, initially with my grandparents, and then directly to the winery. It was the time when I began connecting more deeply with nature, which is essential in viticulture and winemaking. In 2020, I founded Crama de Piatră, and in 2021 we officially opened the location with a restaurant and accommodation. It was a major transition—from managing 2 people to overseeing a complex operation. Today, we have 17 rooms, an à la carte restaurant, an event hall, and a winery from 1912 where we produce our wines.

C&B: What was the most difficult moment and how did you overcome it?

David Sandu: Contrary to expectations, the pandemic was actually a period of growth for me. What came after was harder: the post-pandemic adaptation. That period really tested me both in terms of management and finances. Almost facing bankruptcy, I learned to manage people, funds, and investments more effectively. It came at a high price, but I gained valuable experience.

C&B: What has motivated you over the years?

David Sandu: Ambition and a childhood dream that I could contribute something meaningful to Romanian tourism. At first, I dreamed of becoming a millionaire—a teenage wish—but now I believe the true goal is to grow personally, professionally, and regionally. Winemaking, HoReCa, and tourism are the fields through which I want to bring innovation. Money is a means, not an end.

C&B: How do you feel you’ve transformed since the beginning of your journey?

David Sandu: At 19, I was just starting out, still forming, and didn’t fully understand what running such a large-scale business involved. Now, at 25, I’m much more mature. I’ve grown in resilience and under pressure, and I’ve learned that if you don’t put pressure on yourself, you don’t grow. My business has grown at the same pace as I have.

C&B: How would your team and collaborators describe you?

David Sandu: Most likely, they see me as a leader, not a boss. That’s what I wanted from the start. I’ve promoted a leadership-style management, with frequent meetings where everyone shares their opinion. Collaborators know me as open and project-oriented, not competitive. I believe in synergy, not individualism.

C&B: What decision radically changed your trajectory?

David Sandu: The most important decision was to start delegating and to build a strong organizational culture. In the early years, I did everything—manager, waiter, bartender—and had no time left for growth. Appointing a location manager and establishing a clear organizational chart changed everything radically.

C&B: How did you develop your leadership style?

David Sandu: Naturally, but also through constant learning. I’ve always had a knack for organization, but hard work and education played a huge role. My leadership is solution- and collaboration-based. I encourage the team to grow and support people in moving up the ranks. My relationship with them is a partnership. I regularly attend leadership and personal development courses.

C&B: What sets your business apart from the rest of the industry?

David Sandu: I came with a fresh, modern concept tailored to the times. Being part of the 2000s generation, I have a different, contemporary vision. I have a young team, and we’re constantly reinventing ourselves. Although our current clientele is more mature, we’re preparing the ground for the next generation of customers. Product and service quality is our top priority.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you?

David Sandu: My days vary depending on the season. Generally, I dedicate 70% of my time to the business, and during the grape harvest season that goes up to 90%. The rest is divided between sports, family, and personal development. The greatest satisfaction comes from winemaking and customer feedback. I love what I do, and it shows.

C&B: What values guide your daily work?

David Sandu: Passion, family, and integrity. Everything has been built with honesty and fairness. I don’t believe in stepping over others to succeed. I’ve always held onto my values, no matter the difficulties. I’ve always been and will continue to be fair and honest, even if that sometimes meant losses.

C&B: What message would you send to those who want to follow a similar path?

David Sandu: Don’t give up, even if results don’t come right away. I believe I still haven’t reached my full potential. Life is a long-term game. You have to start and learn along the way. Practice beats theory. The best thing you can do for yourself is to invest in your skills and personal growth. You never lose when you invest in yourself.