RENOWNED Coonawarra winemaker Sue Hodder was recognised as one of the country’s most inspirational women in the industry this week.
Winemaker inspires on national stage
As part of the Australian Women in Wine Awards held in London, Ms Hodder received the Woman of Inspiration Award.
The Wynns Coonawarra Estate winemaker highlighted the importance of women in the historic winery’s story.
“This event was a prime opportunity to tell the story of women at Wynns, a story which is longer than many would realise,” Ms Hodder said.
Also recognised at the event was Coonawarra’s Emma Raidis, who was named runner-up owner/operator of the year under the New Kids on the Block category.
The awards ceremony was streamed live for viewers in Australia and around the world.
Coonawarra wineries represented at the event included Rymill Coonawarra, Wynns Coonawarra Estate, Raidis Estate and Penley Estate.
Overall, the South Australian women in wine represented 18 of the state’s wine regions.
This event was the first of its kind and allowed the United Kingdom trade, press and consumers the opportunity to meet Australia’s most prominent women in wine.
Awards founder Jane Thomson said the event was a pivotal day in the country’s proud wine history.
“Today we not only recognised the depth and breadth of female talent in our own wine community, we did so on a global stage and showed the world Australia values and champions the many and varied roles of women in wine,” she said.
Agriculture, Food and Fisheries Minister Leon Bignell said it was pleasing to see a strong representation of South Australian women at this year’s awards.
“It demonstrates the skills, commitment and experience of women leading our wine industry,” Mr Bignell said.
“Our women in wine contribute significantly to our industry in a diverse range of roles – from winemakers, viticulturists and business owners to marketers, distributors and salespeople.”
