Women in the world of wines and spirits

Some are distillers or master blenders, while others are owners or winemakers, but they’ve all carved a place for themselves in a traditionally male-dominated world. Fortunately, times are changing! Learn more about these extraordinary women and their know-how.

Nathalie Bonhomme | Les Vins Bonhomme

Becoming a winemaker was Nathalie Bonhomme’s dream, but she never thought it would become a reality. With the help of a winemaker friend, this native Quebecer launched her first batch in 2007 to immediate acclaim. El Bonhomme won several awards and earned recognition throughout the country, making a name for itself on the market as a sure bet.. As a winemaker, consultant and prolific exporter of Spanish wines, this happy and charismatic businesswoman is now responsible for a hundred labels, including her own wines.

France Cliche | Le Mas des Patriotes

A foodie and lover of art and antiques, France Cliche is one of only a few women who own a vineyard in Quebec. Initially gifted to her husband for Father’s Day, the first grapevines planted on the property are now part of a 12-acre northern vineyard that has been certified organic. This determined and visionary winemaker is proud of everything that’s been achieved at her Chemin des Patriotes estate in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu.

Chantal Gareau | Vignoble Côte des Limousins

A former Roxton Pond mayoral candidate and breeder of Limousin cattle, Chantal Gareau plants her first cuttings in an area designated by locals as the Côte des Limousins. For 20 years, she’s not only developed her knowledge of wine production, she’s also achieved her dream of adopting organic agriculture practices at her vineyard. Congratulations to this dedicated and passionate woman!

Lesley Gracie | Hendrick’s

Lesley Gracie has a degree in chemistry and worked in pharmaceutical before becoming the master distiller at Hendrick’s from its inception. She was inspired by her love of flowers and plants, as well as the essence of fields of roses and English cucumber sandwiches to create a gin that would break with tradition. The famous Hendrick’s bottle—reminiscent of an apothecary jar—and the precious beverage contained within are certainly behind the modern movement towards this type of spirit, which has catapulted to success. Lesley also made history by being inducted into Gin Magazine’s Hall of Fame on February 25, 2021.

Brigitte Jeanjean | Vignobles Jeanjean

A lover of nature and the great outdoors, Brigitte Jeanjean organized the Harricana snowmobile races in Quebec before returning to her hometown of Languedoc, France, in 1992. One of the province’s beloved producers, Brigitte represents the sixth generation of the Jeanjean family, whose love for their homeland is undeniable! Many of her wines are among Quebecers’ favourites—one sip instantly transports them to the south of France.

Beth Liston | Longshot

A winemaker for E&J Gallo’s Longshot brand, Beth Liston uses her talent to create fantastic wines. She’s always striving to do better, drawing inspiration from everything around her. Her biggest reward? Making wine that breaks with tradition by putting her passion and creativity into developing bold wines that remain affordable... To our delight!

Patricia Toth | Planeta

Hungarian Patricia Toth holds a degree in food science with a concentration in wine, beer and spirits. Her love of wine led her to become a winemaker in northern Italy before joining Planeta in 2005 as an assistant winemaker. She now oversees the Buonivini and Dorilli wineries and orchestrated the launch of the Etna and Capo Milazzo estates. Patricia is also responsible for Planeta’s SOStain sustainability program.

Joy Spence | Appleton Estate

Passionate, creative and blessed with keen sensory skills, Joy Spence is the heart and soul of Appleton Estate rums. She was the first woman to become a master distiller in a traditionally male-dominated industry and has overseen the distillery’s stills for 40 years. Discover the products created by this talented individual, recognized as one of the most influential women in the food and beverage sector according to Food & Wine magazine.