Ten years ago, the first study that looked at the gender composition of the Australian grape and wine sector was published. The results were grim.
Using data from 2007–2013, the study, conducted by Dr Jeremy Galbreath, then a professor at Curtin University, found that women made up less than 9 per cent of winemaking roles, 10 per cent of viticulturist roles, and less than 13 per cent of CEO roles.
Last year, Dr Galbreath (now of Strateos Group), with funding from Wine Australia, conducted a follow-up study using data from 2021–2023. But while the findings show significant advancement – women now represent almost 18 per cent of winemaking roles, 21.5 per cent of viticulturist roles, and almost 34 per cent of CEO roles – change isn’t happening fast enough.
According to Australian Grape & Wine, it will take over 200 years to achieve gender balance in winemaking roles at this rate – even considering the tireless efforts of initiatives such as Australian Women in Wine, which, not coincidentally, will also celebrate 10 years this year.
But here’s the good news. Although women are underrepresented in winemaking roles in particular, the wines they are making are absolutely cracking. Looking at the below list of 50 wines made by female winemakers, it's clear that advocating for gender diversity isn't just important because it's 'right'. More women means a stronger industry, and ultimately, better wine for you.
This International Women’s Day, show your support for women in the Australian wine industry by purchasing and drinking wines made by female winemakers, such as those on the hefty, but by no means definitive, list below.
You can also join the conversation online by posting a photo of what you're drinking to your social media channels with the hashtags #AccelerateAction #MarchForward #IWD2025 #WomenInWine, and by following and tagging bodies and initiatives such as @AusGrapeWine and @AustralianWomeninWine.
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By becoming a member of Wine Companion, you'll have access to the largest database of wines in Australia.
Sign up to view these tasting notes and ratings
By becoming a member of Wine Companion, you'll have access to the largest database of wines in Australia.
Sign up to view these tasting notes and ratings
By becoming a member of Wine Companion, you'll have access to the largest database of wines in Australia.
Sign up to view these tasting notes and ratings
By becoming a member of Wine Companion, you'll have access to the largest database of wines in Australia.
Sign up to view these tasting notes and ratings
By becoming a member of Wine Companion, you'll have access to the largest database of wines in Australia.
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