The majority of wine consumers—over 55%—are women, so who better to craft a fine vintage? While men have historically dominated the industry, rising stars are changing the landscape. The relationship between women and wine is not just a stereotype; it represents a dynamic force that is redefining winemaking. As a woman deeply embedded in the world of wine, I was mentored by viticulturist Lucie Morton, who inspired me to mentor, empower, and collaborate with other women in the wine industry. Women are the wine artists the world has been lacking, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to winemaking.
The Woman Behind Oceano Wine
Growing up with a fine wine collector, I developed an appreciation for the art of winemaking at an early age. My journey in the wine industry, from the vineyards of Middleburg, Virginia, to the creation of Oceano Wines, has been fueled by a passion for excellence and a commitment to female empowerment. As the author of the Middleburg Virginia American Viticultural petition, I honed my skills in identifying great terroir like Spanish Springs Vineyard. This passion extends beyond building my wine business—I aspire to elevate and empower other women to be successful, both in the wine industry and in all aspects of their lives.
Ferment Fearlessly: Supporting Women Winemakers
I’m gratified to be a member of Les Dames d’Escoffier International, an invitation-only membership association of women in the fine wine, food, and hospitality industries. LDEI creates new female leaders in our industries by providing scholarships and mentorship programs. I’m proud of the fact that 70% of every dollar spent in the production of Oceano’s wines goes to women- and minority-owned businesses through programs such as this one. Women winemakers are not just participants in the industry; they are innovators and leaders driving change.
One of the highlights of our winemaking journey was being certified as a “Women’s Business Enterprise” by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council. WBENC is the largest organization of its type in the United States and a leading advocate for female entrepreneurs and business owners. Another highlight was achieving “Certified Woman Owned” status from Women of the Vine & Spirits, a group dedicated to elevating the accomplishments of women in the wine and spirits industry.
In addition to these certifications, Oceano is honored to partner with other pro-female associations and charities that benefit women and girls affected by various injustices. We are committed to fighting socioeconomic disparity, political injustice, neglect, and abuse. We also advocate for medical care and housing for socioeconomically marginalized groups. It is my belief that by working together, we can make the world a kinder, better place. Some of the worthy organizations Oceano is proud to support include:
- Janie’s Fund
- Just Good Business
- Catalina Island Women’s Forum
- City of Hope
- N Street Village
- James Beard House
- No Kid Hungry
- Time’s Up
- Les Dames d’Escoffier International
- Women of the Vines & Spirits
- Jazz at the Ballroom
- Suited for Change
A New Terroir of Wine Feminism and Female Empowerment
The changing landscape of the wine industry is as refreshing as a glass of one of our cool California SLO coast wines. The inaugural Wonder Women of Wine Conference in 2019 brought women winemakers and wine professionals from all over the globe together to learn from and empower each other. Professional organizations like Women of the Vine & Spirits focus on action to create a more diverse and inclusive industry. When we focus on equity, everyone wins. I encourage you to consider women-owned wine businesses when you shop. Your purchases will help propel our industry towards more diversity, which in turn will lead to a wider variety and more choices for you as a wine consumer. We all win when we work together!
Ready to support female empowerment in the wine industry? Visit our shop to explore our collection of wines crafted by women winemakers and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive future in wine. Cheers to women and wine!