International Women’s Day | The Winemakers

Winemaker: Nadja Wallington

Nadja Wallington is a trailblazer in Australian winemaking, carving her name into the industry with her innovative approach and global experience. Starting her journey in her family vineyard in Canowindra, Nadja has worked in California, South Africa, and France, honing her skills on a global stage. Now the winemaker at ChaLou, her passion and precision have earned her the title of Young Winemaker of the Year 2022, solidifying her reputation as one of the industry’s brightest stars

Winemaker: Monica Gray

Monica Gray brings a wealth of expertise and a fresh perspective to See Saw Wines, one of Orange’s most celebrated organic wineries. Joining as lead winemaker in 2021, Monica’s career spans acclaimed regions like Canberra, Mudgee, and Orange, alongside international stints in Germany and France. A champion of organic and sustainable winemaking, she also contributes to the community through educational initiatives and regularly serves as a wine judge, elevating the conversation around organic viticulture.

Winemaker: Peta Kotz

Peta Kotz is stirring up the Hunter Valley wine scene with Sabi Wabi, her innovative label inspired by the Japanese philosophy of imperfection and authenticity. Peta’s wines embrace the natural quirks of the vineyard, redefining what it means to create balance and beauty in every bottle. She’s a rule-breaker, carving a path for a more honest and expressive approach to winemaking.

Winemaker: Emily Glover

Emily Glover is quietly revolutionizing winemaking in the Hunter Valley. Her meticulous attention to detail results in wines that are elegant yet impactful, reflecting the unique terroir of the region. Emily’s work challenges the boundaries of traditional winemaking, making her an exciting figure to watch in the industry.

Winemaker: Sam Sutherland

Focusing on single vineyard expressions, the winery showcases the unique characteristics and growing conditions of each variety, collaborating with vineyards in the cool climate region of Orange. Their ethos emphasises producing wines that encourage sharing among friends, while treating the land, water, and people with care and respect. The portfolio includes a range of wines, such as Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Rosé, and Syrah.

Winemaker: Mem Hemmings

MEREDITH is a boutique wine label that produces natural wines and drinks from various regions across New South Wales. Mem makes her wines in a cooperative with other like-minded producers in the heart of the more traditional leaning Hunter Valley. Mem has a passion for championing the diversity and potential of the lesser known regions of NSW.

 Winemaker: Erin Pooley

Erin Pooley of Little Frances is a firebrand in the Beechworth region. Renowned for her minimal-intervention philosophy, Erin’s wines are as fearless as she is. By prioritizing purity and transparency, Erin is redefining what it means to craft authentic wines that resonate deeply with both nature and people.

Winemaker: Steffi Snook

Steffi Snook, the dynamo behind Yayoi Wines, is revolutionizing the Geelong wine scene with her fearless creativity and deep respect for tradition. Her wines strike a rare balance between old and new, showcasing her ability to innovate without losing sight of the craft’s roots. Steffi is reshaping the future of Australian wine, one bottle at a time.

Winemaker: Madeleine Marson

Carrying on her family’s illustrious legacy, Madeleine Marson is infusing Heathcote wines with fresh energy and innovation. Specializing in Italian varietals, she brings a modern touch to age-old winemaking techniques. Madeleine’s ability to honor tradition while breaking new ground makes her a true trailblazer.

Winemaker: Kathleen Quealy

Kathleen Quealy, affectionately known as the “Queen of Pinot Grigio,” is a powerhouse on the Mornington Peninsula. She’s not only credited with pioneering Pinot Gris in Australia but also with creating a dynamic space where innovation thrives. Kathleen’s legacy is as bold and vibrant as her wines.

Winemaker: Anh Nguyen

Anh Nguyen is lighting up the Tasmanian wine industry with Torch Bearer Wines, where her commitment to biodynamic principles takes center stage. Anh’s wines are a tribute to the pristine Tasmanian environment, and her groundbreaking approach has set a new standard for purity and sustainability in winemaking.

Winemaker: Gwyn Olsen

Gwyn Olsen is a pioneering force at Henschke in Eden Valley, driving innovation in organic and biodynamic winemaking. As one of the first female leaders in this storied winery, Gwyn has embraced her role as a changemaker, crafting wines that honor both tradition and a vision for the future

Winemaker: Rebecca Stubbs

Rebecca Stubbs is a creative trailblazer in the Adelaide Hills. With a background as an award-winning chef, Rebecca’s wines are crafted with a culinary lens, designed to elevate every dining experience. Her unique perspective is reshaping the conversation around how wine complements food.

Winemaker: Corrina Wright

Corrina Wright is rewriting McLaren Vale’s history as a sixth-generation winemaker at Oliver’s Taranga. Known for her bold approach and fearless experimentation, Corrina’s wines capture the essence of her heritage while pushing the boundaries of what Australian wine can be.

Winemaker: Christina Delay

Christina Delay is revolutionizing the non-alcoholic beverage market with Altina Drinks. Her creations, infused with native botanicals and free from additives, have brought sophistication and complexity to the alcohol-free space, challenging perceptions of what these drinks can achieve.

Winemaker: Christina Trabucco & Imogen Hayes

Christina Trabucco and Imogen Hayes are the dynamic duo behind T.I.N.A., disrupting the industry with their bold, alcohol-free creations. Their commitment to crafting stylish, palate-pleasing alternatives has redefined the space, making “not drinking” not just acceptable, but aspirational.

A proud Wiradjuri woman, Tara founded Yaala Sparkling to celebrate native Australian botanicals through refreshing, sugar-free beverages. Each drink is low-calorie, vegan, and free from artificial additives, made with sustainably sourced ingredients and featuring Indigenous artists’ designs. yaalasparkling.com

Originally a winemaker, Victoria founded Barossa Valley Cheese Company in 2003, crafting premium cow and goat milk cheeses. Based in Angaston, SA, her cheeses reflect the terroir of the Barossa and the passion of artisan production. barossacheese.com.au

One of Australia’s most celebrated chefs, known for her passion for farm-to-table cooking. Raised in a Cuban-American family with a deep love for food, she honed her skills at The French Laundry and Chez Panisse in California before leading Fred’s in Paddington, Sydney, where she earned two chef’s hats. Now, as the Culinary Director at the Sydney Opera House, she crafts signature menus that highlight seasonal, sustainable produce and refined simplicity.

A leading figure in Australian wine, Louella Mathews is the Head of Beverage for Trippas White Group and was recently elected President of the Australian Sommeliers Association for 2024. She is also a wine consultant, writer, and event host, co-founding The Somm and The Winemaker alongside winemaker Nadja Wallington. Louella has received prestigious industry accolades, including the 2020 Sommeliers’ Choice Award and a Young Sommelier of the Year nomination. Her passion for curating innovative, diverse wine lists continues to shape the Australian wine landscape, and her leadership is driving the industry forward

Polly Mackarel is the Precinct Sommelier for the Sydney Opera House and Royal Botanic Gardens Precinct, bringing her expertise to Trippas White Group. With over a decade in hospitality and wine, Polly has worked in some of Sydney’s finest restaurants, including four years as Head Sommelier at Cirrus Dining, where she curated an award-winning wine list and received the 2023 Judy Hirst Award for Australia’s best wine list. Her passion for exceptional wines extends to event hosting and professional judging, ensuring each guest experience is engaging and unforgettable.

Fashion model turned DJ, Eve has played for top brands like Dolce&Gabbana, Nike, and Chanel, as well as GQ Men of the Year, The Arias, and Australian Fashion Week. Former Music Director of Hong Kong Fashion Week, she blends high fashion with music, making her a sought-after name in luxury events @evespec

Under the leadership Ceridwen Brown, Milawa Cheese is a distinguished artisan cheese producer located in the heart of Victoria’s King Valley. Founded with a commitment to traditional cheesemaking methods and a strong connection to local ingredients, Milawa Cheese offers a wide array of handcrafted cheeses.

Their selection features soft bries, robust blues, and washed rind cheeses, each showcasing the rich dairy heritage of the region.

A family-run estate in Crookwell, NSW, Alto Olives produces award-winning Extra Virgin Olive Oils and premium table olives. With 20,000 trees spanning European varieties, Alto is committed to sustainability, quality, and tradition. altoolives.com.au

For too long, gluten-free and allergen-conscious foods have had a bad reputation – we’re here to change that. Nonie’s is dedicated to crafting delicious, handmade, small-batch bakery items that just happen to be gluten and dairy free. Founded by Nonie Dwyer,

Nonie’s celebrates the power of real ingredients—organic flours, whole grains, free-range eggs, and Malfroy’s Gold honey—without gums, preservatives, or refined sugars. Recognized by top restaurants and loyal customers, we’re proud to challenge perceptions of what gluten-free food can be. This International Women’s Day, we’re honored to showcase our passion for thoughtful, quality-driven baking at the Sydney Opera House, in celebration of women in food and hospitality.