A 2020 study found that only 14% of head winemakers in California are women. Although the numbers are starting to increase (up from only 10% in 2014) women winemakers are still a minority in the wine industry — which is almost certainly why press and consumers make a point of referring to us as “women winemakers" and not simply winemakers. We’re a novelty!
The issue hasn’t been a lack of interest among women. My hypothesis is that because winemaking involves a lot of physical labor – especially as you’re starting out – it may have originally been viewed as more of a man’s profession – kind of like farming has often been. And for a long time since it was a very male-dominated business, it was hard for women to break through in the traditional boys-club environment and climb the ranks. With more women in these top roles, I believe more women will follow and, very soon, the gender gaps in this profession will diminish.
I think it’s important to recognize women in the industry right now – as those of us in these roles now are overcoming barriers. But my hope is that one day soon, the novelty of being a woman winemaker will wear off, just like it has for many other professions — lawyers, doctors, accountants, etc. — and we will just be winemakers and judged solely on our merits.
This month is Women’s History Month and I am feeling so proud to be part of an amazing community of women in the winemaking business. Together we are making history by mentoring and empowering future generations of women take on these lead winemaking roles!
Thank you for supporting me and my business!
-Kathleen Inman
Owner, Winemaker
Current Fan Favorites
Copyright (C) 2024 Inman Family Wines. All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.
Our mailing address is:
Inman Family Wines
3900 Piner Rd
Santa Rosa, CA 95401-3