People close to me call me the human energizer bunny, always on the move, full of energy and enthusiasm. But even super charged batteries can crash. Running dangerously low on battery, in part due to the side effects of the deadly corona virus (frustration, anger, despair, helplessness, insomnia), self-doubt creeps in – Am I good enough? Do I know enough? Did I choose the right path? Am I making a difference? Do I matter?
At one of my lowest points in life, when I was seriously considering waving the white flag, and surrendering my wine penmanship unexpectedly, I received a new lease on life in the form of acknowledgement and appreciation.
I have learned that success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which she/he has had to overcome while trying to succeed”.
Booker T Washington
It is not only the restaurant industry that is changing their business model. Now more than over, while we SIP (shelter-in-place) for the greater good, wine writers and their voices matter most. With their wit, humor, and extensive knowledge of wine, not only do they entertain and educate us, their riveting stories literally transport us mortal beings to our beloved wine regions, with a simple stroke of a sentence.
Whether you are an industry veteran, wine connoisseur, or contemplating dipping your feet into the magical world of wine, I highly recommend following these accomplished Women Wine Writers. Not only do I (secretly) admire them, these talented women have become a cherished part of my daily life, and I reckon they will become a beacon of hope, humor, and inspiration to you too in these dark times.
What do I have in common with these women aside from the obvious? We have earned the well-deserved spot light as the Top 100 Wine Blogs, Websites, & Influencers to Follow in 2020 according to Feedspot. Hurrah to Women in Wine making a positive impact to our lives!!
Dame of Wine
With numerous prestigious wine award wins and nominations under her belt, (Louis Roederer International Wine Writers’ Awards, Wine Blog Awards and Born Digital Wine Awards), it is understandable why Catherine Todd is hands down one of the most compelling writers of our times. A fellow DipWSET and a freelance wine writer, Catherine also contributes to Forbes and dabbles as the wine columnist for La Voce di New York.
The Wine Siren
Award winning travel and wine journalist, wine ambassador to our Alma mater WSET, Wine Australia, and more. Kelly Mitchell is a brilliant package of wit, intelligence, and grace. From Napa to New Zealand, and everything in between, Kelly’s sensational stories will keep you falling in love with wine over and over again.
By Marisa Finetti
Not only does Marisa holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Marisa makes learning about wine fun and intriguing with her maestro wine doodling skills. While we both got nominated for 2020 Millesima Blog Awards, Marisa swept the win for her Award in Travel article – San Leonardo Estate: Aristocratic Finesse and the Rhythms of Life. In between her travels to Italy, you can find her food and wine perspectives on Decanter, and various Las Vegas and regional magazines.
Ruma Singh
A fellow desi (Indian), you can imagine my delight when I discovered Ruma and her reflections. The second Indian woman (India’s population 1.3+ billion), at the forefront with high credentials in the wine industry. (First lady of Indian wine is Sonal Holland MW).
A journalist by profession, Ruma swapped the pen for a wine glass with the admission to India’s oldest wine club – Bangalore Wine Club. Fast forward to 2020, Ruma is now a full-time writer and columnist on wine. She is also a member of the coveted London based Circle of Wine Writers. Her latest article capture the devastation of Covid-19 & the ground-breaking measures employed collectively by some of the world’s most esteemed family run wineries via PVF aka Primum Familiae Vini. All the best with WSET Diploma of Wine Ruma. I am positive you will rock it!!
Grape Experiences
An avid blogger, Cindy Lowe Rynning charms and seduces you with her extensive travels to the prominent wine regions of the world and in-depth wine knowledge. Swaggering several Wine Blog Awards, currently she is expanding her horizon as a celebrity cruise host.
A Wine Story
My first encounter with Marisa was in my second home – Italy. We both were guests of Moscato D’Asti DOCG, a journalist driven press trip organized by the versatile IEEM ladies. Do not let Marisa’s demure nature mislead you. She is hand’s down one of the most accomplished women I have personally befriended. Marisa is a renowned wine judge and wine writer at numerous prestigious publications including London’s Financial Times, World of Fine Wine, Decanter, Robb Report, & more. A philonoist to the core, her academic accolades include wine-making and marketing from UC Davis, fellow DipWSET and Certified Sommelier (CMS), Certified Wine Educator (CWE). Currently she is pursuing the elusive Master of Wine title. Looking forward to celebrating this exciting milestone with you Marisa!
Palm and Vine
A relatively newcomer to the wine world, Nikki demystifies wine and its intimidating facets in the most fun yet profound manner. After successfully surviving not one but two harvests, one in California and one the other side of the pond – Australia, Nikki has set eyes on Italy, our soul sister. All the best Nikki! Looking to elevate your blind tasting game, check out Nikki’s comprehensive tasting guide on her blog.
Until next time, stay home, be safe, save lives.