Inspiring Conversations with Dena Roché of Vin Roché

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dena Roché.

Hi Dena, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My passion for wine is like fine Bordeaux, it took a bit of time to grow, open up and burst onto the scene. I first got interested in wine through my work as a travel journalist. Covering luxury travel for publications like the BBC, Forbes, Robb Report, American Way and more, I was often wined and dined. I visited and wrote about 32 wine regions in 11 countries on four continents. From exploring New Zealand’s racy Sauvignon Blancs via moped to being shown South Africa’s Winelands by the country’s top young sommelier, my interest in wine grew. I was fascinated by the nuances in wine created by terroir. I began volunteering at wine events where I had the opportunity to share what I knew about wine from what I learned as a journalist and from studying for my sommelier certification. I loved when I introduced someone to a wine they were reluctant to try and watched their eyes light up when they liked it. It’s seeing those “A-ha” moments and helping demystify wine that led me to launch Vin Roché.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I wish! Like most everyone the pandemic has created big challenges. People aren’t throwing wine dinner parties or in-person tastings, so we pivoted to offer online tastings. Wine travel obviously has also been on hold. My test for the sommelier certification has been cancelled twice.

We’ve been impressed with Vin Roché, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Vin Roché is a private wine services business specializing in private wine dinners, tastings and wine travel. We also sell a curated collection of French and California wines. Our goal is to provide an entertaining time for our clients, whether that is at a dinner, tasting or on a trip. With a background as a journalist, my focus is on storytelling-giving clients the cool stories behind the wine, who made it, the place it’s from and of course more knowledge about the wine and appreciating wine in general.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Be flexible and keep learning. Today, it’s rare that you stay in the same career your whole life. If you’re open to opportunities, stay attuned to your own passions and keep learning new things, you’ll be able to change things up either when you want to or when circumstances force you to leave your comfort zone and try something new.

Contact Info:

• Email: dena@vinroche.com
• Website: www.vinroche.com
• Instagram: @denaroche
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VinRocheWine

Image Credits
Kristin Heggli