The emergence and influence of African women in the global wine scene represent a compelling narrative of perseverance, cultural reclamation, and innovative excellence. Historically underrepresented in an industry long dominated by European, and primarily male, figures, these trailblazing women from the African continent and its diaspora are not just breaking barriers; they are actively shaping the future of viticulture, oenology, and wine entrepreneurship worldwide.
This movement is deeply rooted in the winemaking heritage of African nations, most notably South Africa, which stands as a global wine powerhouse. The post-apartheid era catalyzed a transformation in the South African wine industry, opening doors for Black and Coloured individuals, including women, to move from the vineyards—where their labor was often unrecognized—to the cellars and boardrooms. Today, African women are key drivers of diversity and innovation, bringing unique perspectives, resilience, and a profound connection to the land (terroir) to their craft.
Pioneers and Winemakers: Crafting Excellence
The most visible and inspiring figures are the female winemakers who have achieved international recognition, primarily from South Africa. Their stories are a testament to sheer determination in the face of systemic obstacles:
- Ntsiki Biyela (Aslina Wines): Arguably the most iconic pioneer, Biyela holds the distinction of being South Africa’s first Black female winemaker. Her journey, from a rural village in KwaZulu-Natal with no wine culture to receiving a scholarship for oenology and viticulture and later founding her own brand, Aslina Wines, is extraordinary. Her philosophy is to “keep it authentic,” allowing the wine to express the character of its terroir. Her success, recognized globally through awards and international collaborations, serves as a powerful beacon of possibility. Her Umsasane Bordeaux blend and other classic varietals are now exported worldwide, carrying the story of South African resilience and innovation.
- Carmen Stevens (Carmen Stevens Wines): As South Africa’s first Black person (and first Black woman) to graduate as a winemaker, Stevens is another powerful force. She founded Carmen Stevens Wines, which is celebrated as the country’s first 100% Black-owned winery. Her dedication to quality and her inspiring journey from working in the vineyards to owning her own acclaimed brand, which includes award-winning Sauvignon Blanc and Carménère, showcases the rewards of tenacity. She has actively used her business for social upliftment, notably through a partnership with Naked Wines to fund a feeding scheme for underprivileged children.
- Kiara Scott Farmer (Brookdale Estate): Representing a younger generation of talent, Scott Farmer has already made significant waves. She is celebrated for her work with Chenin Blanc and other varietals, and her excellence was affirmed when she became the second woman in 44 years to win the prestigious Diners Club Winemaker of the Year Award. Her success highlights the momentum of transformation within the industry, proving that talent from diverse backgrounds is now achieving the highest accolades.
- Berene Sauls (Tesselaarsdal): Sauls’ brand, Tesselaarsdal, is a deeply personal project, named after the remote farming village where she grew up and which has historical family ties. Her Pinot Noir and Chardonnay have garnered high praise, underscoring the quality and finesse being achieved by Black women entrepreneurs who are simultaneously building their own legacy and preserving their heritage through wine.
The Broader Global Impact: From Cellar to Sommelier
The influence of African women in wine is not limited to South African production. It extends into the diaspora and various professional sectors globally:
- Entrepreneurship and Representation in the Diaspora: Black women in the United States and Europe, many of whom trace their ancestry to Africa, are creating entirely new spaces in the industry. They are launching successful wine brands, consultancy firms, and educational platforms that challenge traditional hierarchies. For instance, the McBride Sisters Wine Collection, co-founded by two sisters who discovered each other later in life and who have family roots in California and New Zealand, has become one of the largest Black-owned wine companies globally, symbolizing the power of a global sisterhood in wine.
- Redefining Wine Culture: African women sommeliers, retailers, and educators are dismantling the often-intimidating and exclusive culture of fine wine. They are focusing on community, authenticity, and accessibility. Organizations like the Hue Society, founded by sommelier Tahiirah Habibi, champion Black wine professionals and consumers, creating a social and professional network that is changing the narrative around who is a wine connoisseur. Similarly, the work of educators and consultants across the world is using wine as a bridge to cultural understanding, pairing the richness of African heritage and modern Black culture with the complexity of wine.
- Advocacy and Social Upliftment: Beyond making exceptional wine, many African female figures are deeply invested in social change. They are driven by a ‘push’ factor—the desire to create a more equitable and inclusive industry for those who follow. This involves mentorship, educational scholarships for youth of color, and championing ethical practices that ensure fair labor and community development, thereby extending their impact far beyond the bottle.
The Ongoing Challenges and the Future
Despite the extraordinary successes, the path remains challenging. African women, especially those of color, frequently navigate systemic barriers, including limited access to capital, land ownership, and deeply ingrained industry stereotypes. In South Africa, the ownership of vineyards by Black individuals remains disproportionately low. The need for greater diversity, not just in production but across the entire value chain—from viticulture and management to marketing and distribution—is critical.
The future, however, looks vibrant. The visibility of these trailblazers is inspiring a new generation. Initiatives like Afro Wine Week and various mentorship programs are fostering a global community that celebrates the cultural connection between Africa and wine. As African women continue to lead with passion, scientific acumen, and a powerful sense of purpose, they are ensuring that the global wine scene is not just diverse in flavor, but also in the rich, authentic stories of the people who bring it to the world. Their legacy will be defined not only by the quality of their vintages but by the enduring transformation they have orchestrated in a previously impenetrable industry.