Women Winemakers Guide

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The Women Winemakers Redefining Modern Wine

International Women’s Day celebrates the contributions of women in wine, but their work is evident year-round. For generations, women have shaped vineyards and influenced the character of the wines themselves. Whether inheriting centuries-old family properties or launching new labels, these female leaders are producing bottles that stand comfortably alongside the industry’s most respected names.

In this guide, we’ve selected 12 standout bottles from across regions and styles that showcase the winemaking led by women.

Women Winemakers Today

Women are active at every level of the wine industry, from vineyard management to cellar decisions and long-term planning. They are shaping how wines are grown, made, and positioned in the market.

A Growing Global Presence

Over the past two decades, women winemakers have moved from the margins to the center of the industry’s most closely watched regions. In areas once dominated by tradition, female winemakers now lead respected wineries and smaller, boutique properties alike. You can find them crafting precise Rieslings in Germany, complex Pinot Noirs in Oregon, and vibrant blends in South Africa.

In Bordeaux, Tuscany and Rioja, where lineage once dictated who was in charge, women are increasingly at the helm, advancing sustainable farming, reviving indigenous grapes and crafting wines with greater balance and drinkability.

Leadership Beyond the Cellar

Leadership in wine today extends far beyond fermentation tanks and barrel rooms. Today, women in wine lead cellars, run vineyards, guide sustainability programs and shape multi-generational family businesses.

A women-owned winery may look different from one region to the next, but the common thread is steady management. These women are often at the forefront of organic conversion and social responsibility, viewing their businesses as legacies to be nurtured rather than short-term ventures.

A Curated List of Female-Led Bottles to Try Now

Below is a list of female winemakers and wineries that reflect the growing role of women in vineyard, cellar and business decision-making. We have grouped them by region to help you navigate the styles.

Europe

Gabel Goldberg Riesling Pfalz 2021

Pfalz, Germany – Dry Riesling

Co-led by Lisa Gabel, who represents the 13th generation of this historic winery, the property has moved toward organic farming under sibling ownership. Crafted under their leadership, the dry Riesling opens with white peach, citrus and ripe apple layered over a firm mineral backbone. Ideal with spicy Asian dishes, pork, duck or soft cheeses.

Wyfold Vineyard Rosé 2018

Oxfordshire, England – Sparkling Rosé

Founded by Barbara Laithwaite, this boutique English winery reflects a hands-on, quality-first approach in both the vineyard and cellar. The wine shows red berry, citrus and toasty biscuit notes, backed by multiple 90+ point scores and awards from international competitions. An excellent aperitif or partner for seafood, poultry and cream sauces.

Lobo e Falcão Centenário Grande Reserva 2023

Tejo, Portugal – Castelão-based blend

Head winemaker Joana Lopes brings a modern sensibility to this historic producer, defining a red that pairs Portuguese depth with poise and structure. The palate reveals ripe plum, dark chocolate and integrated oak from nearly a year of barrel aging. Enjoy this robust red with steak, braised meats or hearty stews.

Pagos de Tahola Selección de Martin 2016

Rioja, Spain – Tempranillo

Fourth-generation winemaker Ruth Chavarri leads her family’s Rioja estate, bringing precision and a long-aging sensibility to this barrel-matured release. It features dark cherry, vanilla spice, and earthy mineral depth, shaped by two years in oak and extended bottle aging. This wine is a natural match for roast lamb, tapas, and charcuterie.

Création d'Émilie Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2020

Rhône Valley, France – Grenache-based blend

Émilie Boisson represents the next generation at one of the Rhône’s oldest family domaines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, carrying forward a multi-century tradition. That heritage comes through in its refined elegant of blackberry, wild herbs and velvety spice. It was awarded a gold medal by Gilbert & Gaillard, one of France’s leading wine guides. Well-suited to game meats, lamb or roasted vegetables.

La Scelta di Sofia Toscana 2024

Rioja, Spain – Tempranillo

Sofia Barbanera reimagines Tuscany’s flagship grape in an unexpected way, crafting a rare white Sangiovese that balances regional tradition with a modern, expressive touch. Fresh aromas of citrus blossom, quince and bright red cherry define its character. The wine pairs effortlessly with seafood, risotto, and light pasta dishes.

The Americas

Momtazi Family Estate Pinot Noir 2017

Willamette Valley, Oregon – Pinot Noir

Tahmiene Momtazi serves as winemaker at her family’s biodynamic vineyard, continuing their long-standing commitment to holistic farming. This elegant Pinot Noir offers layers of black cherry, pomegranate and earthy spice. It is an ideal companion for salmon, duck and mushroom dishes.

Catalyst Cabernet Sauvignon by Sparkman Cellars 2022

Columbia Valley, Washington – Cabernet Sauvignon

Co-founded by Kelly Sparkman, whose leadership helped shape the estate’s direction and identity, this Cabernet reflects a family-driven vision in Washington wine. The palate is rich with blackberry, currant and savory herbal notes. An excellent partner for beef, lamb, or aged cheeses.

HJ Fabre Assemblage Malbec Syrah 2024

Mendoza, Argentina – Malbec-Syrah blend

Diane Joyaux Fabre plays a central role in the winery’s global operations, overseeing the business side as the wines reach an international audience. This blend delivers dark berries, gentle spice and subtle florals. It shines when paired with grilled steak, roast duck or aged cheeses.

Amandla Shiraz Zinfandel 2023

Western Cape, South Africa – Shiraz-Zinfandel blend

Led by Praisy Dlamini and a team of Black women, Amandla highlights both female winemaking talent and the growing influence of women in South African wine. Blackberry, plum and warm spice define the palate. Serve with barbecue, burgers or spicy dishes.

McPherson Aquarius Marsanne Viognier 2024

Victoria, Australia – Marsanne-Viognier blend

Head winemaker Jo Nash brings Rhône varieties to vibrant life under the Australian sun, shaping a generous and modern white expression. The palate is lush with peach, apricot and soft honeysuckle spice. Pair this aromatic white with seafood, turkey, or creamy sauces.

Women Owned Wineries, Co-Founders, and Why Ownership Changes the Story

Ownership influences vineyard strategy, stylistic decisions and long-term planning. When women manage both the land and the label, they shape not only how the wines are made, but how the business evolves.

Many of today’s most influential wineries are women-owned, balancing heritage with the changes required to stay relevant. Some are led by solo founders crafting small-batch Pinot Noir. Others are established châteaux now led by daughters and granddaughters, steering historic properties toward biodynamics. You’ll see female-owned wine brands that adapt quickly to changing tastes and the realities of sustainable farming today.

Why These Wines Matter Now

Each bottle in this selection stands out for the clarity and character it brings to the glass. From structured Portuguese reds to mineral-driven Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, they reflect precision and balance across regions.

Choosing wines made by women isn’t about making a statement. It’s about broadening your view of what modern wine can be. It introduces you to new styles, new regions and new producers.

FAQs

What does "women winemakers" mean?

It typically refers to women responsible for the winemaking decisions that shape a wine—from harvest calls to blending and aging.

Are there stylistic differences in wines made by women?

There is no single “style” that defines women winemakers.

How can I support female-led producers when shopping?

Look for producer profiles and "About Us" sections on winery websites. Check bottle back labels, and retailer notes—many shops also curate women-led selections.

What’s a good first bottle to start with from this list?

If you like crisp whites, start with Field of Stones Sauvignon Blanc. If you prefer structured reds, Lobo e Falcão Centenário is a strong first pick.

The Women Winemakers Redefining Modern Wine

Discover women winemakers and women-owned wineries shaping wine today. From historic producers to modern innovators, explore bottles selected for balance, character, and range.