Women in Wine Industry | Cellaraiders

Questions? call 866.909.WINE or email ben@cellaraiders.com

Questions? call 866.909.WINE or email ben@cellaraiders.com

5 Women Making Waves in the Wine Industry

January 12, 2017

5 Women Making Waves in the Wine Industry

Women are altering the world of wine through innovative techniques and inspiring aromas. Here is a closer look at some of the notable women that are making a mark on the wine industry:

Tukwini Mandela – South Africa

Tukwini Mandela created the House of Mandela winery in Swartland, South Africa, with her grandfather—Nelson Mandela—in mind. She wanted to continue on his legacy by naming the wine label after him, and each label design portrays a different symbol that holds great meaning for her family. The wine that represents her winery the best is the 2014 House of Mandela Sauvignon Blanc from The Thembu Collection. Tukwini operates her winery in a fair and sustainable way, providing opportunities for the people of South Africa while giving them something to take pride in.

Susana Balbo - Argentina

In the Mendoza Province of Argentina, Susana Balbo runs her namesake winery. Susana was born into winemaking and opened her own winery in 1999. She is also the first woman in Argentina to receive a degree in enology (the study of wines). Her trademark wine is the Susana Balbo Signature Barrel Fermented Torrents, and she has received international recognition for her work with the Torrontés grape.

Melanie Pfister – France

Coming from eight generations of winemakers, Melanie Pfister is no stranger to the art of making wine. Even though the Domaine Pfister winery in Alsace, France, has been producing wine for centuries, Melanie is the first woman to take the lead. She has magically blended Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Muscat to create her own unique wine called Domaine Pfister Cuvée 8—the eight representing her generation.

Iris Rideau – United States

Located in Santa Ynez Valley, California, Iris Rideau is proudly the first African-American woman to found her own winery in the U.S.A, the Rideau Vineyard. She is originally from New Orleans, and she strives to bring their unique culture into in her wine, while still making sure to keep the flavor notes that California wine is known for.

Caroline Granger – Canada

For the last 15 years, Caroline Granger has been running The Grange of Prince Edward winery in the Canadian province of Ontario. With her daughter by her side, Caroline creates noteworthy wines, including the Lot 2 Brut. Additionally, Caroline is an involved women’s rights activist who is passionate about ending violence against women.

Women may be relatively new to winemaking, but it’s safe to say they are making their mark and altering the wine industry forever.