Cellarmasters and BWS have joined forces to create Australia’s first drinks festival with an all-female line-up.

The inaugural Meet the Makers: Women in Beer, Wine & Spirits is taking place in Sydney as part of International Women’s Day, and will give drinks lovers the chance to meet some of Australia’s and New Zealand’s finest female brewers, winemakers and distillers.

“We want to shine a well-deserved spotlight on women in winemaking, distilling and brewing, which are traditionally male dominated industries,” said Christine Ricketts, Cellar Director at Cellarmasters. “But thanks to these trailblazing women, this is now changing.“

The number of women employed in wine making is estimated to be 38%. However, when it comes to leadership and senior roles, female representation has been estimated at 10% or less.

According to Australian Distillers Association, women make up approximately 15% of distillers in the industry. There are no official stats on the number of female brewers in Australia.

“Although the industry is changing, there’s still a long way to go,” said Vanessa Rowed, BWS Head of Marketing. “This event is all about celebrating women in beer, wine and spirits and giving customers an opportunity to meet these incredible women and try their products.” 

Meet the Makers: Women in Beer, Wine & Spirits is taking place at Australian Technology Park in Sydney, and kicks off with a session on Friday, March 8 – International Women’s Day – with two more sessions on Saturday, March 9.

Up to 30 winemakers, distillers and brewers will be serving samples during the festival.

Winemakers include Gwyn Olsen from Briar Ridge and Pepper Tree Wines, Sarah Pidgeon from Wynns Coonawarra and Elena Brooks from Dandelion. Brewers and distillers include Jayne Lewis and Danielle Allen from Two Birds Brewing, Laura Carter from Applewood Distillery and Jaz Wearin from Modus Operandi.

Tickets range from $50 to $60 per session, and include complimentary tastings from all producers, a branded glass to keep, a booklet and entertainment. Masterclasses are also available at an additional cost.

For tickets and more info, head to https://atools.io/womenindrinks or Cellarmasters or BWS.com.au

Pictured: Heirloom’s Rosie Signer