On 9 August, South Africa is celebrating Women’s Day. Without venturing into the magnitude of reasons why the world needs women, I thought to share a few reasons why the traditionally male-dominated wine world would have been a much poorer place without them.
Personalities – Have a look at The Drinks Business’s Top 50 most powerful women in wine. From Gina Gallo to Jancis Robinson to Baroness de Rothschild. It is an impressive list. What a contribution they are making!
Palates – What one tastes is such a personal thing, it really depends on the individual, not the gender. What I can say however, is that I have met women in wine with amazing abilities to taste the finest nuances – and even more impressively – to identify and communicate them so accurately.
Pairing – While most chefs are men, in most households women are responsible for a palatable plate – and what about pairing? Who is responsible for adding some lemon to a succulent roast chicken ensuring a beautiful match to Chardonnay?
Pick and Pay – And while the leather, oak and formal atmosphere of traditional wine boutiques can do something for wine sentiment, today’s lifestyle requires lady shoppers to select their wine from their favourite retailer. And with their needs in mind, today supermarket wine aisles ensure that convenience does not exclude quality or choice.
Panache – While the world of serious wine tasting is clean and technical, the world of wine enjoyment is all but sterile. I am a bit old school and love being the one opening the wine in my house, but there is something to be said for the flair with which a lady pours a glass of wine!
Happy Women’s Day!