This Women’s History Month, we’re celebrating the incredible women leaving their mark on the wine world. Women in wine is not just a fad; it’s a game-changer, showing how the wine world continues to shake things up and embrace progress.
Why Women in Wine is a Big Deal
In an industry where men have been traditionally hogging the spotlight, women winemakers have entered center stage, not just making wine but making some of the best and innovating while they do so. Women winemakers and women-led wineries are not only worth talking about but, most importantly, worth sipping.
The Scoop on Women Winemakers Through History
Believe it or not, ladies have been crushing it in the wine game longer than you’d imagine. Think back to ancient civilizations like Egypt and Greece, where women were the original winemakers. Fast forward to today, where women reclaim our spot at the vineyard.
Meet the Leading Ladies of the Wine World
Ever heard of Fiona Beckett? She’s an award-winning food and wine writer, one of the world’s leading experts on food and drink matching, wine columnist for The Guardian and the author of 25 books on food, wine, beer and alcohol-free drinks. I encourage you to read her recent articles to expand your wine knowledge and palette!
Valerie Rousselle is the owner of the French winery Chateau Roubine, which is located in the famous French region of Provence. Leading a winery known for its sustainability efforts and 100% organic certified, Valerie is an innovator in the French wine scene. Now a family-run operation, Valerie and her children currently run the winery and day-to-day operations.
Marianna Bruscoli is behind the fully organic, sustainable, biodynamic and vegan winery Tenuta Santi Giacomo e Filippo in Marché, Italy. Not only does Marianna run the winery, but her stunning estate is also home to a wellness retreat and spa. Wine, wellness, and a spa? Talk about the perfect trifecta.
Valentina Di Camillo comes from generations of winemakers and is the first woman in her family to become one, currently serving as the head winemaker alongside her brother. After studying enology, Valentina followed in her father and grandfather’s footsteps, joining the family business to award-winning wines at Tenuti i Fauri in Italy.
Looking locally at women changing the wine game, Melissa Marotta-Paolicelli and Angela Marotta are the two women behind the Niagara Winery Two Sisters!
Alongside their family, Melissa and Angela shared a vision: “Not only did they want to create a gorgeous Estate to visit, but they wanted to create a winery that could be a leader in producing super-premium and luxury wines in Canada” – and just that they did with Two Sisters Vineyard in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
I’ve been a wine importer and expert at Tre Amici Wines, working with top winemakers around the world to import the best here in Ontario. Importing some of the best wines in Toronto, I’ve become an enthusiast for non-pretentious wine tastings, making wine more approachable for all.
Bottom Line
Women in wine aren’t just pouring drinks; they’re changing the game.
Women continue to bring fresh perspectives, flavours, and varietals to the table. Our challenge to you: next time you’re shopping for a bottle of wine or placing an order at a restaurant, search for a woman-made bottle we know you’ll enjoy. Cheers!
