People
Honoring Women's History Month at Sommsation
March 25, 2025
It goes without saying that women make the wine industry a better place, and the proof is found in our very own team. More than 50% of our staff is made up of women, including at top-level positions—from CEO and Lead Sommelier to numerous head winemaker partners, winery owners, and beyond. The knowledge and passion that women bring to the table is unmatched, and we are grateful for each and every woman that brings their unique talents to our company.
In honor of Women’s History Month, we asked a few of our women winemaker partners to share what the most rewarding facets of being a woman in wine are, and how they believe that women make the wine industry a better place. Check them out below, and to all of the women that make Sommsation so great, thank you—without you, there’d be no us.
“The camaraderie among women in the wine industry is something truly special,” says Sharon Cohn, “Sister 1 of 3” at Breathless Wines. “At Breathless Sparkling Wines, we’re not just making wine—we’re building connections, sharing stories, and celebrating the passion that goes into every bottle,” she says, stating that their winemaker Penn Gadd-Coster, pours her heart into every sip, always thinking about how it will complement a meal and bring people together.
“Women bring a unique blend of intuition, collaboration, and attention to detail that elevates the wine industry,” Cohn continues.
“We foster a sense of community and inclusivity, ensuring wine is not just about the bottle, but about the experiences and connections it creates,” she says, stating that women bring a collaborative spirit, intuition, and a deep sense of connection to the craft, enhancing not just the wines but the culture around them.
Chelsea Hinman Miller, VP of Sales for DW Hinman Cellars, states that knowing that she's working towards a larger goal of leaving a lasting legacy for my children—similar to what my parents did for me growing up in the wine industry—is the most rewarding part of being a woman in wine for her. “My son and daughter get to see their mom launching into a male-dominated industry, working hard, thoughtfully and with the goal of having a recognized brand!” she exclaims. “Additionally, I think women naturally have a more discerning palate, and general attention to detail, which brings an approachability to a brand and glass of wine others cannot,” she says.
Jennie Murphy, Owner and Winemaker at Oxlee Graham Wines, describes the sense of community amongst women in wine as one of the most rewarding factors. “As a woman in wine, there is so much support and strength you can find from other women walking the same path,” she says. “We are there to lift each other up and that bond helps to make each brand stronger, and diver thinking makes every industry stronger,” she says.
Click the following links to learn more about Breathless Sparkling Wines and Oxlee Graham Wines. To sign up for our Sommsation Soirée with Oxlee Graham Wines on Sunday, May 18th, click here.
