In Familia Martínez Bujanda we believe in equity, in the value of people for who they are and how they act, regardless of their appearance, race, beliefs, gender, age… We work for a future in which none of this matters and only the ability of each person to contribute and help build a better society.
A road to equality that would not have been possible without the preponderant role of many women throughout history. Today we want to focus on those with a clear link to wine and celebrate that they continue to be a reference for everyone.
In a world where passion and dedication are intertwined with tradition and innovation, the presence of women is not only remarkable, but essential. From cultivation to marketing, women have played their part in every stage of the wine industry, making their mark with talent, determination and vision. In this article, we will explore the importance of women in this field and highlight some truly inspiring examples.
The wine industry has evolved considerably in recent decades, and one of the most significant transformations has been the participation of more and more women in all segments of the value chain. From family vineyards to world-renowned wineries, women are leading with skill and tenacity, bringing a different and enriching perspective to wine production.
Fortunately, the number of women who have achieved special relevance for their accomplishments is large, so we cannot include all of them in these lines. Here is a small selection.
Great inspiring examples
Marta S. Martínez Bujanda. Fifth generation of a saga of winemakers. 135 years of legacy behind her is a lot of responsibility, but Marta has proven she is more than up to the task. She takes up the baton from her mother and her grandmother Doña Pilar, as well as being the export manager of the family’s wineries. As if that were not enough, Marta is also president of the Rueda Wine Route, becoming the first woman to hold the position.
Jancis Robinson MW. Undoubtedly one of the most influential and reputable critics and journalists in the industry. Writer of some of the most important books on the world of wine, such as The World Atlas of Wine, The Oxford Companion to Wine, and Wine Grapes. Robinson was the first person to earn a Master of Wine degree without being in the wine industry.
Isabel Mijares. The great pioneer of Spanish wine. First Spanish woman to finish her studies in oenology, first woman to direct a winery in Spain, first woman to direct a regulatory council, etc. A reference for all of us, who recently left us orphaned of his wisdom.
Almudena Alberca MW. First and, for now, only Spanish woman to achieve the title of Master of Wine. The most prestigious certification in the industry, which has only been obtained by 418 people worldwide, 149 of whom are women. Almudena is currently the winemaking director of the Entrecanales Domecq e Hijos winery.
María José López de Heredia. As winemaker and owner of Bodegas R. López de Heredia – Viña Tondonia, María José has had to face the difficulty of maintaining the tradition and quality that have led her wines to be internationally recognized, winning accolades for their elegance and longevity.
Gina Gallo: As part of the Gallo family, one of the world’s largest wine groups, Gina has played a leading role in creating and promoting some of California’s most iconic wines. His passion for sustainability and innovation has taken the Gallo winery to new heights of excellence.
Laura Catena. As a physician turned winemaker, Laura Catena has brought the family winery, Bodega Catena Zapata in Argentina, to the forefront of the global wine industry. His pioneering vision and commitment to quality have been instrumental in raising the reputation of Argentine wines on the international scene.
Merry Edwards: Recognized as one of California’s pioneering winemakers, Merry Edwards has established a legacy of excellence in the production of Pinot Noir and other varietals from the region. Her ability to capture the essence of terroir in every bottle has made her an influential figure on the global wine scene.
Madame Clicquot. Whose name was Barbe Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin, after being widowed at the age of 27, she took over the company founded by her father-in-law, becoming one of the first modern businesswomen at the beginning of the 19th century. Among his major contributions to the industry are: the first known vintage champagne, the invention of the crushing table and the first known blended rosé champagne. Almost nothing.
Lily Bollinger. Born Élisabeth Law de Lauriston-Boubers, like the other great lady of champagne, she was also widowed, in her case at the age of 42. Her innovative drive and quest for excellence led her to create the Bollinger R.D. cuvées. and Vieilles Vignes Françaises. She is also known for being the author of some of the wittiest sentences about champagne, for example: “I only drink champagne when I’m happy and when I’m sad. Sometimes I drink it when I am alone. When I am in company, I consider it obligatory. I play with it if I’m not hungry and drink it when I am. In any other case I never touch it, unless I am thirsty.”
These examples are just a sample of the significant impact that women have had and continue to have in the world of wine. From the vineyard to the table, their contribution is invaluable, enriching the diversity of the wines we enjoy around the globe. It is essential to recognize and celebrate their contribution in order to continue moving towards a better society.
PS: We know that we have left out many women, so we invite you to tell us, in the comments section, who you would have selected. But above all, may we toast to all of them.
