It’s a wonderful women’s world

Doctor, author and winemaker, Catena Zapata, Argentina Laura Catena

Since our first meeting, Jancis Robinson MW has been an inspiration to me. She remains true to her principles and always conducts even difficult discussions with reason and kindness. Above all, she is a tireless supporter of women.

When Jancis came to Argentina, she was very impressed by our sustainable work, which ranges from the promotion of biodiversity to water conservation and social commitment. Her only - and justified - criticism was our heavy bottles. So I worked with local glass producers to reduce the weight. Over the past 15 years, I've sent Jancis regular updates and asked her for advice on communicating the need for lighter wine bottles to wine drinkers. Most recently I made this clear with a simple comparison of bottles and suitcases, because nobody twould spend a lot of money on a heavy luxury suitcase today!

Respect, goodwill and kindness are Jancis' top priorities. That's why she can move mountains for the causes she supports. And although she is so brilliant and impressive, there is not an ounce of arrogance about her.

ASI Marketing & Communications Xeniya Volosnikova

There are numerous remarkable women who push me to be a better version of myself every day - for example Nina Basset, Jancis Robinson MW, Pascaline Lepeltier MS, Paz Levinson, Nina Jensen or Dorli [Muhr] herself! Especially in recent years, Maryna Revkova, Best Sommelier of Ukraine 2020, has been my daily source of inspiration and motivation. When I feel like I can't find the time or energy to do something, I think of her. She had to leave Kyiv and work in Portugal to buy an electricity generator for her family in Ukraine. Maryna has to take a two-day journey by train and bus from Kyiv to Austria to study at the wine academy in Rust. And when I am looking for an excuse not to study, I have her in my head, learning about pruning techniques amidst the noise of air-raid sirens. Maryna reminds me every day that I can do anything if I want to.

Winemaker, Rocim, Portugal Catarina Vieira

In addition to my family - especially my grandmothers, my mother, but above all my sister, who constantly reminds me to stay true to myself - I am also inspired by the women I work with. Each of them brings strength, creativity and resilience to their work. And of course my friends.

But for me, inspiration is not just tied to a name. Every day I find it in women who embrace their freedom, who fight for the fundamental principles of a just society, who stand up for their values and principles without seeking recognition. In those who publicly advocate for change, and in those who change the world around them through quiet but equally powerful actions. It is this collective force of solidarity - diverse, determined and unwavering - that truly inspires me.

Nevertheless, if I had to mention a few names, I would highlight women such as Michelle Obama, Yoko Ono, Natália Correia, Simone de Beauvoir, Hannah Arendt, Simone Veil, Paula Rego, Beatriz Ângelo, Sophia de Mello Breyner, Patti Smith, Maria Teresa Horta, Nina Simone and Virginia Woolf. Although they come from different eras and backgrounds - politics, philosophy, literature, activism, art and music - they are united by their ability to challenge convention, break down barriers and create space for others to express themselves freely.

Winemaker, Strehn winery, Austria Pia Strehn

When I think of women who have inspired and motivated me, who have made me who I am today, four come to mind:

First and foremost, of course, my mum, who has managed a winery alone with three children - hats off, incredible achievement, and THANK YOU for the foundation you have laid for us!

Anne-Claude Leflaive: the biodynamic winemaker had a fascinating personality. The takeover of Clau de Nell on the Loire also produced cult wines, and I loved the Cabernet Franc from the very first second. Unfortunately, while she died far too young, she was a great visionary who showed incredible courage and believed in her style of wine.  

LaLou Bize-Leroy: In my opinion, she is one of the most influential and innovative winemakers in the world. As the owner of Domaine Leroy, she has created three of the ten most expensive wines in the world. I am fascinated by the biodynamic approach and the vineyard projection focussing on one variety of the highest quality!

Elisabetta Foradori: My visit to the winery over ten years ago really touched me. You could feel the closeness to nature and their wines are incredibly fine, pure and honest. When I saw the amphorae in the wine cellar, I knew exactly what I wanted to do. A great role model!

Head of Sales, Sekt producer VAUX, Germany Maria Deckers

From and with my three sisters, I learnt early on what cohesion among women means. Each of them is unique and they showed me how important individuality is. To this day, they inspire me to surpass myself. And at VAUX, it is Clementine Perlitt who is a great role model for me with her positive attitude to life and toughness. She has been my companion and mentor for more than five years, her impressive career motivates me, her support and her mindset spur me on time and again. Clementine shows me every day that you can get ahead together.