Kavita Channe, best known as an NFL sideline reporter, TV personality, and sports and entertainment host, boldly steps into the highly competitive Rosé market with the launch of her self-named wine, Channé Rosé.
We talk to the former reality star about the inspiration behind the wine that she describes as dry, clean and crisp, with hints of peaches, passion fruit and white flowers with scents reminiscent of the Saint Tropez shore.
Why did you want to launch a Rosé wine?
Two summers ago, I traveled throughout Europe’s wine countries and fell in love with rosé. When I came home to the U.S. I was very disappointed in the offerings in terms of rosé wine on the menus of restaurants across the board. The options were limited and less than average. Meanwhile, the Europeans got to enjoy the “good stuff.” I thought, we deserve amazing rosé here in the US, too! Thus, Channé Rosé was conceived.
What’s the story behind the blend and flavors, please tell us what dictated the selection?
I wanted an everyday rosé that was not only fun to drink pre-meal, but also delicious with a meal. Something crisp, smooth and elegant that left you wanting more. We tried many different blends, and ultimately went with Grenache, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. It was the blend that hit every note in all of our blind taste tests—a blend that allowed our rosé to stand out from the rest beyond the traditional seafood pairing. Yes, our rosé is delicious with oysters and lobster; however, you can enjoy ours with red meat, too. Lobster Bar, for instance, pairs Channé Rosé with steak tartare parisienne as well as broiled New Zealand lamb lollipops.
Did you have prior experience in the wine and spirits industry?
Not really. When I was in my early twenties, I did tastings for several liquor and wine brands at various events, if that counts. Other than that, I’ve been a wine lover since my parents first let me try it as a teenager in Europe. Of course, the drinking age is much younger there than here in the U.S.
How did you manage to make this dream a reality?
It started off an idea, and that idea never went away. One day, we said, “screw it, let’s do it.” And that’s what we did. You have one life—why not do what you love and create awesome sauce with awesome people?
Top lesson/take away you can share with other wine lovers and aspiring makers about the process of launching your own wine?
If it’s a dream of yours, go for it! Do as much research as you can. Factor in production, marketing and a sales team into the equation to figure out your investment needs. Be prepared to hustle, hustle, hustle. This business is not for the faint of heart.
Currently distribution is throughout South Florida, are there plans to expand distribution? Can this wine be purchased at any local retail locations?
Channé Rosé is offered in and around South Florida at various restaurants including Lobster Bar in Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Valentino’s, One Door East, Café Maxx, and CHOPS Boca, to name a few. We are also at Barrique of Avondale in Jacksonville. We will be available for retail purchase soon.
You’re best known as a TV personality, please tell us about your most recent, or upcoming projects.
Between bringing Channé Rosé to market and being a first-time mother with a 5-month old at home, I barely have any time for much else. I’ve been working with several charities and organizations to raise awareness and funds. I was happy to have been able to emcee the American Heart Association’s Annual Heart Ball again this year, as well as speak at “United Way: Next Gen” about my career, getting ahead, and much of what we talked about here today. I owe it to my broadcasting career for opening doors for me to help others. If I can inspire just one person to go after their dreams and not give up, then I have done my job.
What is the one thing you want people to know about your Rosé?
Give it a taste. You won’t be disappointed!
For more information on Channé Rosé visit channerose.com, instagram @TheChanneRose