Published October 3, 2024
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Wine has a special ability to bring people together, and the bonds created by wine can persist over many years and across international boundaries. This harvest season serves as a powerful reminder of friendship’s importance and how small family businesses can work together.
Introducing Roche Wines
In addition to making our own wines, this year we are also crushing and pressing for our friends at Roche Wines in Penticton, British Columbia. Owners and Vignerons Dylan and Penelope Roche were devastated when a historic cold snap killed their vines down to the roots. Replanting will take several years, and in the meantime, they could be left without any wine to maintain their business and support their family.
The Power of Friendship
Dylan, a fellow winemaking classmate of mine, called on a busy July afternoon this past summer to explain the situation. We hadn’t talked in nearly two decades but I immediately recognized his voice. I also knew we would meet this challenge.
Since then we have walked the vineyards together, tasted each other’s wines and shared several meals. We’ve also pulled out old photos of Dylan standing up with Delphine and I at our wedding 20 years ago.
There Will be More to This Story
I’ll be sharing more about this collaboration as the story unfolds. In the meantime, consider inviting someone you have been thinking about to share a bottle of wine. Your friendship will benefit!
