Celebrating Women’s Day Winemakers

By Iheoma Okoroma | March 8, 2023 0 Comments

Women’s Day is celebrated globally and brings together women of all nationalities to celebrate women’s rights progress, and general achievements as women. This 2023 we are visiting the wine industry, which is traditionally a male dominated arena (around 82% are men) and showcasing a selection of wines spearheaded by female winemakers. So, raise a glass to our ladies – in moderation, of course!

Houghton Heritage White 2022, Margaret River, Australia, 13.5% abv

Courtney Treacher is behind this gorgeous, full bodied, dry white made from 70% Chenin Blanc, 23% Muscadelle, 5% Chardonnay, 2% Pinot Grigio grapes. The nose smacks of citrus, rose petal, musk and hints of pear. We found an expansive and musky palate with a long, floral finish. Goes well with seafood and white meats. RRP £11.99 from Waitrose.

Signature Barrel Fermented Torrontés 2021, Argentina, 11.5 % abv 

Susana Balbo’s techniques have created a fruity nose that gives way to a palate abundant in peach and honey. This is a sophisticated and complex wine that is smoothly finished with tropical notes.  Like many whites this can be paired with fish and white meats, however we recommend enjoying on its own in order to savour its fresh and balanced acidity. £22.50 from Noble Green Wines £17.50 from The Champagne Company.

Ramon Bilbao Sauvignon Blanc Rueda 2019, Spain, 13.5% abv

Sara Banuelos is responsible for this spicy offering – a wine overflowing with passionfruit and lychee that tangoes with herbaceous undertone. Expect all the usual lushness and juiciness of the Sauvignon grape – full on flavour without being syrupy. Sauvignon Blancs are easily recognised from the tropically infused nose. We think you will love this as much as we did. Pairs well with fish, shellfish and white meats. RRP £11.00 from Booths.

Textura Wines, Textura da Estrela Tinto 2018, Portugal, 13.0% abv

Mariana Salvador has combined all this – 45% Field Blend, 35% Touriga Nacional, 29% Jaen, 10% Alfrochiero grapes, grown on granite soils to produce a wine boasting notes of red flowers, raspberries, cocoa and pine, with balanced tannins. It still works, with ageing in French vats for 15 months to round out the palate. Try it with robust red meats. £18.68 from Justerini & Brooks.

McPherson Wines Don’t Tell Gary Shiraz 2019, Australia, 14.5% abv

Jo Nash is responsible for this 100% Shiraz. As with many Aussie wines, it weighs on the palate, with dark red and black fruit and multiple spice notes. Tannins add smoothness to the long finish. This puncher can be drunk alongside strong cheeses and rich meats. £16.49 from Laithwaites.

Do head over to our Women In Business section to read more about these featured female winemakers.

In case you’re wondering, the indulgent looking desert is a Chocolate & Caramel cheesecake, £5.00, from Asda’s Extra Special range. Rich and chocolatey all over with a liquid caramel layer, it goes well with dry white and red wine. Highly recommended by the author!