Community Highlights: Meet Katie Rice of VinoTeca

Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Rice.

Hi Katie, 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?
I moved to Atlanta in 2001 from Ohio after graduating from Miami University with a degree in Social Work—only to quickly realize that path wasn’t for me. After a brief one day stint at Red Lobster, I landed a job at Van Gogh’s restaurant in Roswell. I knew absolutely nothing about wine at the time, and their program was both extensive and deeply rooted in classic French wines. The staff, far more seasoned than I was, pushed me to learn everything I could. I fell in love almost immediately—with the history and the stories.

A few years later, after building several wine programs and gaining management experience, I joined Barcelona Wine Bar. There, I dove headfirst into Spanish wine and had the chance to travel to Spain multiple times, which only deepened my passion especially for organic and biodynamic wines.

In 2014, after a memorable (and definitely drunken) conversation, the idea for VinoTeca was born—supported by the Barcelona team. We opened in 2015 with a diverse collection and a mission centered on education. We were among the first in the city to offer weekly themed educational tastings, something that quickly became part of our identity.

When Barcelona was sold in 2018, we struck out on our own, and in 2021 I purchased VinoTeca outright. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to build a team of hardworking, like-minded people, including Janeen Jason—one of the true talents in the Atlanta wine community.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Here’s a polished and more cohesive version that keeps your tone but strengthens clarity and flow:

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Yes and no! I feel incredibly fortunate for the opportunities I’ve been given, but I’ve also worked hard to earn every one of them. When I first entered the industry, I was truly eager to dive in headfirst. The biggest challenge early on was simply finding the time to study and taste. Working in restaurants is tough, and wine often comes second to the daily grind. I poured a lot of energy into creating unique, thoughtful, and complex wine lists while simultaneously managing the business.

At the shop, the challenges have shifted. Keeping up with trends while maintaining our standards has probably been the hardest balance to strike. And the reality is that people just aren’t drinking the way they used to. In the last several years, we’ve had to pivot—embracing non-alcoholic options and even exploring THC beverages to meet people where they are.

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Want it more formal, more conversational, or shorter?

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I own a retail wine shop that specializes in small-production, distinctive wines, and we’re best known for our weekly themed tastings—one of the most popular parts of what we do. Our passion is rooted in education, so we offer intimate, informative classes and wine dinners that encourage people to learn, taste, and explore. We also host many private educational events, from corporate team buildings, to engagement parties and birthdays. We love to be a part of people’s special life moments.

What I’m most proud of is the community we’ve built. We’ve developed genuine relationships in the neighborhood and created a loyal following of people who trust our palates but are also excited to step outside their comfort zone and try something new. VinoTeca has its own special vibe: live music out front, a casual and welcoming atmosphere, and a space that feels inclusive to everyone—including the four-legged guests.

We love supporting small family businesses, from the winemakers we champion to the chefs who cater our events and the musicians who play for us. At the heart of it all is people. Helping, guiding, and mentoring my team and young wine professionals to be the best versions of themselves has become one of the most meaningful parts of my job.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
All of the things! There is very rarely an instance i say no! I love to help people rise up and think outside the box. Wine goes with everything!

To support us is as simple as coming in to grab a flight or a bottle. Hosting an event with us is truly special and unique.

Pricing:

• Flight – 3 wines for $15
• Wine ranges from $10 – $350

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shopvinoteca.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopvinoteca/