Breaking Barriers: The Women Changing the Wine Industry

The wine industry is thought to have a level of grandeur when you consider royal families and aristocratic people indulged in the consumption of wine. Fast forward to the 21st century, wine is enjoyed by countless people from all walks of life. This March is Women’s History Month and it is a moment we all can take to honor women who have been trailblazers in the wine industry globally. This rise of women in wine has been inspiring to witness.

My first mentor was my mother, she always set the example of sharing what we had with others whether it was a place to rest their head or to share a meal with family or friends. I learned early that sharing a meal with someone meant you acknowledged their humanity. I think wine does something similar for me. Meeting old and new acquaintances for a glass of wine is part of my routine as a food and wine writer in Lisbon.

There is an African proverb that goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone; but if you want to go far, go together.” That saying is apropos for our times. Community is central to giving these trailblazing women their flowers.

We have the example of the first African American women wine producer, Iris Rideau with Rideau Vineyards in Santa Ynez Valley in California. The list is growing every year and we will highlight the impact these women have in the industry.

I spoke with a few wine industry veterans about their respective journey’s. Nikki Wooldridge-Pinto is a California native now living and working in France. “I am a Dame. I work in the wine import/export business. Also, I am a wine buyer and tour guide. I own Game of Seasons.” Wooldridge-Pinto has seen a lot of changes in the industry. “I have been in the industry for 20 years. I started off being a bartender, working in fine dining, and being a former flight attendant. I also organized people’s cellars. And I also focus on wine education.” 

Jean-Wesley Michel is a sommelier and restaurant manager, as well as the owner of #WineWithWes on Instagram. Michel says, “Truth be told, I was born into the industry. My dad was a chef, and I’ve been in the kitchen since I was three.” However, his journey in the wine industry began in 2018 when he attended a tasting hosted by Shakera Jones, which sparked his deep passion for wine. Through mentorship provided by The Hue Society and The Roots Fund, he has become a proud advocate for diversity in the wine world. 

“When it comes to women in wine, I have to start by acknowledging that my own career wouldn’t have begun without the influence of a remarkable woman.” Michel continues, “Marvina Robinson’s champagne brand, B. Stuyvesant, holds a special place in both my heart and on my palate. Her Grand Reserve Brut was my first introduction to her line, and in true Brooklyn fashion, even the bottle design made it clear she was here to leave a lasting impact on the industry.”

Giving a platform to women in wine is key to the longevity of their careers in the wine industry. Michel states that shining a spotlight on the women in the wine world is a joy to witness. “Alongside Marvina, I must mention Aamira Garba, the owner of LoveLeeWine. My admiration for Aamira and the brand she’s building—an homage to her daughters—is truly inspiring.”

For all the wine lovers, 2025 is the watch in the wine world. Michel shares that for him, “watching the brand [LoveLeeWine] grow has been a privilege, and her Regal Rosé is a personal favorite, as well as a guest favorite. Aamira is definitely one to watch in 2025!”

Sarita Cheaves is a DC native, a WSET certified wine professional, wine media producer, storyteller, and the creator of Swirl Suite Podcast, where she amplifies diverse voices in the wine industry. Her journey into wine began with a single email to wineries in Maryland, leading her to Black Ankle Vineyards. Cheaves would later build, Swirl Suite podcast with her co-hosts, Glynis Hill, Leslie Frelow and Tanisha Townsend, a platform that connects people to wine through engaging stories, content, and conversations. Cheaves and her co-hosts are celebrating Swirl Suites 10th anniversary this year. It is a major milestone and demonstrates their dedication, impact and community they’ve built.

“At my core, I’m a storyteller. My work isn’t just about tasting notes and reviews; it’s about uncovering the deeper stories that make wine an experience,” says Cheaves.

When asked about who in the industry inspires her, Cheaves is candid. “Jennie Murphy of Oxlee Graham is the epitome of women’s history in wine. She has broken barriers with both her talent and tenacity, carving out a space for herself in the industry.” This level of camaraderie is important especially as corporations in the United States rollback DEI initiatives. Cheaves also shares her delight in seeing her peers change the narrative in a historically male-dominated industry.

“The women behind Philosophy Winery, Kim Johnson and Denise Matthews, are redefining what leadership, resilience, and representation look like in the wine industry.” Cheaves would be remiss if she did not highlight the work of Carly Seward, co-founder of the Veraison Project. “Carly Seward doesn’t just participate in the industry; she cultivates it. As co-founder of the Veraison Project, she is dedicated to breaking down barriers by providing mentorship, education, and access to those seeking a career in wine.”

Whether you are a novice or long time wine lover, this month we can deepen our appreciation for women in wine who have been trailblazers in the industry.

Marvina Richardson, B. Stuyvesant owner

Kachét Jackson Bell, Certified wine consultant

Photo credit: Fena Fenelon
Ty-Juana Flores, Wine enthusiast and founder of the tfluxè table

Anne-Marie, Sommelier and Co-Founder of Studio Tatata

Kelly Mitchell, Sommelier, wine educator