Celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science
A Toast to Women Pioneers in Wine on February 11th
On February 11th, we celebrate Women and Girls in Science Day, honoring women's important contributions to science worldwide. Join us at VinoVoss to honor women in science and their vital contribution to global knowledge.
Women in Early Wine Cultures
Throughout wine's history, men excluded women from power, but women's strength has made a lasting impact on the wine story. Despite strides towards equity in the last century, much work remains.
At VinoVoss, we focus on the challenges women encounter in the wine industry. We also highlight their experiences in owning wine businesses. Additionally, we learn from the inspiring stories of determined women who have successfully overcome obstacles. Laws support gender equality in wine-producing nations, but top wine trade roles still have a gender hierarchy.
Empowering Women Through the Ages: A Historical Perspective
Shaping Women's Wine Rights
Feudal Europe's inequitable laws, reinforced by the Napoleonic Code, marginalized women. Inheritance laws fragmented vineyard ownership, limiting women's entry into the wine realm.
Triumph Through Tragedy
Post-Napoleonic widowed women in Champagne, like Veuve Clicquot, revolutionized the industry. Successful widows such as Lily Bollinger and Louise Pommery continued to shape Champagne.
Education Opens New Paths: Women Winemakers of the 20th Century
The 1960s saw women pursue formal education in winemaking. MaryAnn Graf and Zelma Long were trailblazers, and Cathy Corison started wineries in the 1980s.
Breaking Down Systemic Obstacles
Despite diminished legal barriers, systemic obstacles persist. Achieving a truly inclusive world of wine requires ongoing commitment. Collective efforts have made progress, emphasizing the urgency for greater equity and inclusion.
Looking forward
Women have an advantage in taste and smell, which should benefit them. Two studies show that women are better than men at identifying and being sensitive to smells. Researchers conducted one study at the University of Pennsylvania and another at the University of Cardiff in Wales.
This holds true across diverse demographics, including age, ethnicity, and cultural backgrounds. Dr. Linda Bartoshuk conducted a study on taste. She discovered that there are three categories of people based on their taste abilities.
The first group consists of individuals who have a low sensitivity to taste. The second group includes individuals who have a moderate sensitivity to taste. The third group comprises individuals who have a high sensitivity to taste. Supertasters, mostly women, have the most taste buds and are very sensitive to taste.
A Resilient Future for Women in Wine
Let's raise a glass to the strong women who overcame obstacles and made a significant impact on the wine industry. Today is International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
There are some notable women to watch out for. They include Dr. Laura Catena, Cristina Mariani-May, and Eugenia Keegan, to name a few.
Dr. Laura Catena is owner of the beautiful winery Catena Zapata in Mendoza, Argentina. She also created the Catena Institute of Wine. The purpose of this institute is to study everything in the Adrianna Vineyard. As a result, the Adrianna Vineyard has become one of the most studied vineyards globally.
Cristina Mariani-May is the CEO and President of Banfi Wines. Eugenia Keegan manages Oregon Winery Operations and Business Development for Jackson Family Wines.
But even better, you have to try their amazing wines because they are definitely worth a try:
The journey continues, with each passing day seeing more women contribute to a more inclusive and equitable wine industry. Here's to the powerful women in science, forging a transformative path in the vibrant world of wine.
By Lotte Gabrovits
