Madeline Triffon, Master Sommelier, was the energetic and engaging moderator for the Women in Wine Leadership Symposium. Madeline was the second woman in the world to pass the rigorous Master Sommelier exam.
The best wines don't just transmit flavors but connect us to places, cultures, and each other. From the vineyard to our local wine shop, there are legions of people working tirelessly to keep the wine flowing in our lives and women are a vital part of the industry.
On October 17th, the 5th annual Women in Wine Leadership Symposium was held in New York City and provided a special opportunity for female winemakers, writers, sommeliers, retailers, and educators to gather together for an empowering day of inspiration, education, and wonderful wines. This invitation-only event was hosted by The Winebow Group and produced by Cornerstone Communications.
As a first-time attendee of the symposium, I was thrilled to be surrounded by so many dynamic and successful women with a shared passion and professional commitment to wine. When I first started blogging, women in the wine industry were the ones who opened doors for me. Overwhelmingly, women have been the ones to nurture my growth by inviting me to tastings, introducing me to winemakers, and offering much-needed words of encouragement when I was not sure of how to proceed.
Devoting my time to wine writing has required me to make some drastic changes in my life. My heart soared and my choices felt affirmed when winemaker Nancy Irelan, of Red Tail Ridge Winery, told the rapt audience that "you're never too young or too old to change the way you live."
Female winemakers and/or winery owners from The Winebow Group portfolio were represented in grand style at the symposium during the walk-around tasting. It was an absolute pleasure to meet women like Meri Tessari of Suavia winery in Italy's Soave Classico region. Meri works closely with her three sisters to produce their family's exceptional wines. Suavia Monte Carbonare Soave Classico DOC 2014 ($30) is a gorgeous expression of the Garganega grape - crisp and creamy with vivacious citrus, herbal, and mineral flavors.
Verónica Cousiño of Cousiño-Macul winery in Chile spoke beautifully of balancing her demanding career with her commitments as a mother of three and a wife. Verónica is the export and marketing director for her family's winery and represents the 7th generation to work in the business. Cousiño-Macul Lota 2010 ($80) is an elegant and bold blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with rich ripe fruit flavors and hints of spice and toasty oak.
Like a great glass of wine, a wonderful event lingers with you long after the moment has passed. Weeks have passed and I still find myself thinking about the dynamic and inspiring women that I met at the Women in Wine Leadership Symposium. We're all in this together!
