Dhane Chesson: New Horizons

Dhane Chesson, previously associated with Pierre's, the Wine Room, and the Wine Academy of Spain (in that order), has recently received an appointment as Rioja Regional Specialist, Southeast, working with Vibrant Rioja. In 2010, Rioja DOC invested in the U.S. to promote the region's tradition, culture, language, arts, and architecture using wine as a primary entry vehicle. Vibrant Rioja is the U.S. marketing arm of Rioja DOC and its charge is to bring awareness of the diversity of Rioja to U.S. sensibilities.

In her new role, Dhane is responsible for building the Rioja brand and Rioja wine education in the Southeast. She expects to accomplish those goals through consumer and trade awareness campaigns.

In addition to her work with Vibrant Rioja, Dhane is also working with Adam Lazarre (winemaker behind Rex Goliath -- prior to its sale to Constellation -- and Cycle Gladiator) and April Cullom on a Spanish private-label project called La Peña (the group). The objective of this venture is to deliver quality, entry-level wines that are new-world friendly while still retaining their inherent old-worldliness.

We wish Dhane all the best as she embarks on these exciting journeys in these turbulent times.