Alicia Lini, fourth-generation vintner of Emilia-Romagna’s Lini 910.
Women are increasingly taking centre stage as leaders, innovators and custodians of their regions in the wine and spirits industry.
In recognition of this ongoing transformation, a second annual Women in Wine & Spirits Event will take place at Millennium Hall in Chicago on 20 October 2024. Hosted by Vinitaly.USA in collaboration with Decanter, this year’s event will feature nine iconic and emerging Italian women producers, highlighting their distinct contributions to the industry.
Among the honorees are Marilisa Allegrini, Micaela Pallini, Chiara Lungarotti, Roberta Bricolo, Alicia Lini, Giovanna Caponi, Maria Faretra, Elena Fucci and Chiara Soldati – each of whom has redefined excellence across generations, regions and practices, with a commitment to sustainability, innovation and strong family heritage.
Ahead of the event, we spoke with these trailblazers to explore their personal journeys and the legacies they’re building for future generations.
Guardians of the land: Cultivating a responsible future
Sustainability runs deep in each of these producers’ core values. Marilisa Allegrini, owner of San Polo in Montalcino, believes it’s fundamental to her role, emphasising that women, as caretakers of future generations, have a unique outlook on protecting the land. ‘Our legacy inspires us to leave the land better than we inherited it,’ she noted.
Marilisa Allegrini (centre) and her daughters, Carlotta and Caterina.
Chiara Soldati, CEO of La Scolca since 1998, is equally committed to innovation with a focus on environmental and social responsibility, striving to create a ‘hub’ for connecting excellence worldwide.
Honoured as a ‘Cavaliere del Lavoro’ (Italian Order of Merit for Labour) alongside Allegrini by the President of the Italian Republic, Soldati also leads CASA, the Committee for Social Aspects of Alcohol, where she advocates responsible consumption. Her White and Black Label Gavi dei Gavi wines, referred to as ‘Piemonte’s white crown jewels’, are sold in over 60 countries and will be available to taste at the event.
Chiara Lungarotti also joins the sustainability conversation, embracing best practices while preserving the rich heritage of her family’s renowned Umbrian winery, Lungarotti. Taking the helm of the business at just 28 years old, her leadership has driven the family business, and region, forward. ‘What gratifies me most is being an ambassador for our splendid Umbria,’ she shared, highlighting how her work intertwines wine quality with culture and tradition.
Chiara Lungarotti, CEO of Lungarotti. Credit: Valeria Cazzola
Both Lungarotti and Soldati believe that by sparking curiosity in younger generations and encouraging them to explore what makes each wine unique, they can help address non-moderate alcohol consumption.
Pushing boundaries through innovation
Innovation is at the heart of Maria Faretra’s success, a rising producer from Puglia who plans to add a Metodo Classico sparkling wine to her portfolio within the next three years. This bold move reflects her forward-thinking approach and the growing potential of her region.
At the event, Faretra will showcase her newly released Temèria Malbech Rosé and Sontuosa Nero di Troia Rosato – wines that embody her dedication to niche, high-quality products and the true essence of Puglia. Known for her modern packaging, Faretra’s labels feature an eye-catching portrait of a woman, symbolising strength and independence. With degrees in Cosmetic Science and Marketing, and experience in her family’s construction business, she has created a standout brand in a highly competitive market.
Maria Faretra in the vineyard in Puglia.
Dr Micaela Pallini, president of Rome-based Pallini S.p.A., also exemplifies innovation with her scientific approach to business. Holding a PhD in chemistry, Pallini has driven sustainability initiatives and expanded the company’s…
Source : https://www.decanter.com.master.public.keystone-prod-eks-euw1.futureplc.engineering/sponsored/crafting-change-a-celebration-of-italian-women-in-wine-spirits-539216/
