Champagne is one of the most conservative wine regions of the world and today less than 10% of the region’s chef de caves are female. And for a very long time, the industry has looked very white, very male and very much middle aged.
However, a wind of renewal is sweeping the region, and it started very softly in the XVIII th century, with the widows (in French veuve) of the region. Today we are lucky to have some wonderful role models to look up to who are smashing the glass ceiling, and highlighting the way for the young women who may well run Champagne tomorrow. Here is a list of the trailblazers, leaders and emerging talents of the world of Champagne.
Veuve Clicquot
Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin was widowed at the age of 27. After her husband passed away, she convinced her father in law to let her run part of the family business, and took on their champagne business to the next level. She is credited with the invention of the riddling rack, the first blended rose and selling en masse to the Russians in a gutsy move hours after the embargo.
Louise Pommery
Coming out of retirement when she welcomed her second child into the world at 40 in 1856, Louise and her husband purchased vines to ensure their daughter’s legacy. Mr Pommery passed away soon after leaving Louise with the business and two young children to raise. She is now lauded as the
This Article was originally published on Champagne Every Day
