Wines, Vines, Women: a Wine Odyssey? by Florence Tilkens Zotiades | Apogee

The author first explores hypotheses regarding the role of women in the discovery of the vine and the making of wine; she traces the origins of the discrimination against women and its causes, particularly the inferior status imposed on them by most ancient civilizations.

She then examines the heritage, economic, and cultural consequences of this subordination, shaken by the second feminist wave of the 1960s and 1970s.

The work then addresses the slow but steady feminization of the industry despite lingering patriarchal attitudes and the challenges surrounding wine, a symbol of wealth, power, and prestige.

The text features profiles of women who played a role in the world of vineyards and wine, along with testimonies from women currently working in various roles within the industry. Despite their skills and experience, they still have to face discriminatory male behaviors in the 21st century.