Pictured: Olivia Bue, Winemaker, Robert Renzoni Vineyards - Photo Credit - Temecula Life

The ancient Egyptians believed that wine was a gift from the goddess of fertility, so it’s no surprise that women have been making wine for thousands of years. During the Middle Ages in Europe, women often played significant roles in winemaking, but it wasn’t until the 20th century that they began to gain wider recognition and acceptance as professional winemakers and viticulturists. Here in Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country, we’re fortunate to have many talented women shaping the industry’s evolution and future. Here are just a few: 

Emily Bloom, Assistant Winemaker and Vineyard Coordinator, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa and Carter Estate Winery and Resort 

Emily started her wine career as an intern at South Coast Winery in 2015 and has since expanded her role to work for South Coast’s sister winery – Carter Estate – as well. She earned her B.S. in global resource systems (sustainable agriculture) from Iowa State University. Raised in San Diego, Emily always loved the climate of Southern California. “We have the ability to grow many different fruits and vegetables,” she says. “Including grapes!” 

“I have found wine production to be creative and fun, and I cannot imagine myself in any other industry. I very much enjoy mentoring our interns who work harvest, as well as leading the tasting room staff to shadow our production work. It is rewarding to be able to teach and mentor, and it gives me continued enthusiasm for our industry.” 

 

Olivia Bue, Winemaker, Robert Renzoni Vineyards 

An Encinitas native, it’s no surprise that Olivia returned to Temecula in search of a winemaking position after graduating from UC Davis with a Viticulture and Enology degree, and working for Molly Dooker in McLaren Vale, South Australia, and Cakebread Cellars in Napa Valley. Olivia was hired and mentored by longtime Temecula Valley winemaker Gus Vizgirda in 2012, which allowed her to take the next step as Assistant and now Head Winemaker at Robert Renzoni Vineyards. 

“What drew me to Temecula Valley was the possibility to grow with the region and make an impact in the region’s accomplishments,” she says. “It’s not easy working full time while being a mother, especially during harvest, but it’s important to me for my kids to see what hard work and drive looks like. I’m so enthusiastic and passionate about making wine. It brings joy to my life which ultimately makes me a better mom.” 

 

Christina Falik, “Chief Wineaux,” Gershon Bachus Vintners 

Christina came to Temecula Valley nearly two decades ago from Laguna Beach, where she was raising her son with husband Ken. After purchasing 21 acres of land perched atop of a hill with “views like Tuscany,” Christina says the wine bug hit her. She enjoys mentoring other women interested in winemaking. 

“I mentor women who have little or no experience and will take my time to teach them,” she says. “I offer help and support whenever they struggle. I also believe that being positive is essential, and sometimes that trait needs to be encouraged. Wine Production has made great strides for women and the opportunities are there for those who are not afraid of the work or the hours.” 

 

Kristina Filippi, Winemaker, Wilson Creek Winery 

A lifelong resident of Southern California, Kristina Filippi grew up in the cradle of California’s wine-growing origins, the Cucamonga Valley.  

“As a mother of two girls, and a woman working in a primarily male-dominated industry, I believe that the best action I can take to support and elevate women on a day-to-day basis is to make sure I am striving to show up as a genuine and authentic person, every day,” she says. “For me this means leading with clear, honest, and compassionate communication.” 

 

Nadia Urquidez, Assistant Winemaker, Doffo Winery 

Born in Ensenada and raised in a small town called San Vicente in Baja California, Mexico, Nadia started as an intern at Doffo Winery as she was completing her degree in Viticulture and Enology. A student of science – Nadia also has a B.S. in chemistry – she fell in love with the process of winemaking. In the following years, this passion and knowledge provided opportunities to build her career with Doffo, where she has worked for nearly a decade.  

“I am surrounded by amazing women,” she says. “I always try to encourage all the positive things they want to do, even if it’s a small thought. I feel flattered when they ask me for advice. It doesn’t matter if it is personal or professional, I try to be there for them.”