Women in Wine is one of the first wine-producing companies in South Africa that is fully owned, controlled, and managed by women. They welcomed Women’s Month with a major celebration, marking a big win for their wine brand.
Women in Wine has launched a new range of wines exclusively available at Shoprite and Shoprite LiquorShops nationwide. In December 2023, Women in Wine achieved a significant milestone by securing a listing with the retailer for its Natural Sweet range. Comprising a trio of red, white, and rosé wines, this collection offers customers a refreshing experience featuring natural sweetness and versatile flavours.
“Each bottle tells a story, urging you to savour and elevate each moment. Our labels, developed in partnership with Shoprite, honour the wine’s character and craftsmanship, celebrating the invaluable role of female producers,” says Beverly Farmer, co-founder and chief executive officer of Women in Wine.
This partnership with Shoprite goes beyond mere distribution, says Farmer.
“It’s a collaboration that celebrates diversity, innovation, and the power of black women-owned enterprises. We’re deeply thankful to Shoprite for embracing small businesses like ours.”
Levelling up women in vineyards
The wine company was established and founded in 2006 by a group of 20 women, all with backgrounds in the wine industry.
Born out of a shared dream to give women, especially farmworkers and their families, a meaningful share in the industry, the group of women have committed themselves to sourcing wine from farms that comply with socio-economic legislation, focusing on ethical and environmental practices, employment conditions, skills development, and training.
Together, they are committed to addressing aspects of black economic empowerment, ensuring that the benefits of the industry extend to those who have historically been marginalised.
The Women in Wine label produces six distinguished wines: sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon/shiraz, pinotage rosé, and chardonnay chenin blanc.
These wines have not only made a significant impact locally but have also found success on the international stage. Exported to countries such as the US, China, Ireland, Spain, Sweden, and Denmark, they are also available locally in Makro stores nationwide and online.
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The company’s efforts have been recognised with a nomination for the Ethical Business Award by the prestigious international magazine, The Drinks, in the UK.
Women in Wine has also established the Farm Worker Women’s Trust, collaborating with strategic partners to provide on-the-job training opportunities. This initiative currently benefits approximately 200 female vineyard workers.
One of these women is Ursula Vriesenhof, who began her journey as a picker, advanced to working in the cellar and eventually moved into an administrative role.
“I was exposed to industry events and related training, significantly boosting my confidence and advancing my career prospects,” says Vriesenhof. “Now, I’ve come full circle – I’m back in the vineyards, but this time as a supervisor.”
Through their innovative approach and unwavering commitment to socio-economic and ethical practices, the group of women intend to continue opening doors for women and reshape the landscape of South African viticulture.
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