At the turn of the 20th century, the world of wine was alike many industries; patriarchal. The vineyards, the cellars, the tasting rooms - all bastions of male dominance, where women were relegated to the sidelines; to do the hardest work for less than half the pay. They might inherit wineries, but they were rarely permitted to run them. Their names were absent from the grand châteaux of Bordeaux and the hallowed domaines of Burgundy.

Yet history tells a compelling story; one of quiet resilience and defiant innovation. When wars left vineyards without men, it was women who took the reins, managed the fermentations, and ensured that vintages were not lost to time. Sadly however, as soon as peace returned, the industry pushed them back into the shadows.

A century later, the tides are shifting. The walls of tradition are crumbling, and the world is finally recognising the talent and tenacity of women in wine. Bijou are a producer who are proud to play their part in this transformation, inspired by the spirit of Sophie Valrose; not just as a name, but as a symbol of change.

The Legacy of Sophie Valrose

Bijou have named their award-winning range of southern French wines after the legend of Sophie Valrose; a name given to a 19th-century vineyard worker in Languedoc - a beautiful but somewhat overlooked region where the Mediterranean sun kisses the rolling hills and the Mistral wind breathes life into the vines. It is written that a woman fought for fair treatment of women labourers in the vineyards - an unheard-of rebellion in her time.

Le Bijou de Sophie Valrose wines are crafted to celebrate the strength, skill, and artistry of women in wine. They collaborate with female viticulturists, winemakers, marketers, influencers and entrepreneurs, ensuring that their voices and talents are recognised. They actively sponsor events that celebrate and elevate female talent, share knowledge through mentorship initiatives and create meaningful recruitment opportunities. By investing in the growth and success of women at every stage of their wine journey, Bijou aims to foster a more inclusive and dynamic industry that thrives on diverse perspectives and talents.

Women Shaping the Future of Wine

Today, trailblazing women continue to redefine the industry. Figures like Elizabeth Gabay MW, a leading authority on rosé wines, have elevated the conversation around winemaking with their expertise and passion. Others, like Laura Catena of Argentina’s Catena Zapata, seamlessly blend tradition with innovation to push the boundaries of winemaking. In France, Caroline Frey is setting new standards with her biodynamic approach to winemaking at Paul Jaboulet Aîné, proving that sustainability and excellence go hand in hand. These women, and many more, are not just participating in the industry, they are leading it.

As wine producers, Bijou also has to consider those who are buying their wines and shaping the consumer landscape. A recent study indicated that women purchase approximately 55% of all wine sold in the UK, 59% in America. In Sweden, 69% of women expressed willingness to buy organic wine. With women driving the majority of wine purchases globally, crafting wines that resonate with their preferences - whether through taste or storytelling - is not just a market opportunity, but a necessity for the future of the industry.

A Future Worth Toasting

Whilst the wine industry is still far from equal, changes are happening. As of the 2010s, women held more than 30% of professional wine titles in France, a significant increase from less than 10% in 1956. Additionally, it's estimated that women account for about one-third of the approximately 50,000 heads of French vineyards, compared to 14% two decades prior. In the UK, women comprised 43% of the wine and spirits industry workforce as of 2016. Specifically, 36% were involved in production roles, indicating a positive trend toward greater gender diversity and a reminder that women belong in every aspect of this flourishing industry.

Just as the region of Languedoc is now gaining the recognition it deserves, Bijou strives to ensure that the talented women in wine receive the same opportunity to thrive. So, the next time you raise a glass, take a moment to explore its origins, you might just discover the story of an inspiring woman who helped produce it.

For more information visit bijouwine.com