Growing Together: North West Women in Wine Network Flourishes
The North West’s vibrant wine scene is buzzing, and at the heart of this energy is the Curious Vines North West group. This dynamic network for women wine professionals recently held its second successful meeting, bringing together nearly 30 passionate individuals to connect, share, and inspire.
Hosted by Charlotte Jones, co-owner of Liverpool’s Manifest Restaurant and Bar, the event on Monday, June 30th, at Manifest, was a testament to the growing demand for collaboration and professional development within the region’s wine industry. Local experts from restaurants, wine bars, retail outlets, and wine education gathered for an informal yet highly engaging networking session. The focus? Sharing personal career journeys and strengthening business ties within the expanding North West wine community.
Diverse Pathways, Shared Ambition
A highlight of the evening was hearing from three established professionals who showcased the diverse career pathways available in the wine industry:
- Jane Clare DipWSET, a renowned wine educator and journalist.
- Charlotte Jones, a respected hospitality professional.
- Abigail Thomas, Brand Ambassador for Rathfinny Wine Estate.
Charlotte Jones opened the discussion by emphasising the crucial need for women to address the confidence gap in the wine industry, which still contributes to a substantial 7% gender pay gap. “We must have the confidence to show that we deserve every career opportunity there is – to put our hand up and say: ‘I want to get to the next level’,” she urged.
Abigail Thomas, representing English wine producer Rathfinny Wines, shared her inspiring journey. She highlighted how proactively seeking opportunities paid off, leading her from utilising her hospitality skills to open and run the winery’s restaurant and rooms, to ultimately becoming a Brand Ambassador. Her key advice for progression? “Ask questions and stick with it!“
Freelance journalist, wine writer, and trainer Jane Clare, of Liverpool-based ‘One Foot in the Grapes’, captivated the audience with her story of developing expertise from the ground up. Admitting her initial lack of wine knowledge, Jane took her readers on her own wine education journey after a press trip to Chablis. Today, having completed the WSET courses, she runs training programs for both professionals and wine enthusiasts, hosts events, and writes a syndicated wine column appearing in around 25 regional newspapers. For Jane, “Teaching gives me the biggest buzz and has helped me to gain the most confidence.”
A Thriving Community and a Bright Future
“It’s fantastic to see so many talented women working in wine right here in Liverpool and across the North West,” said Charlotte Jones. “From our restaurants and wine bars to retail and education, we have incredible expertise in our city. This group provides a way for these professionals to connect, share experiences, and support each other’s careers over some lovely food, and personal selections of wines.”
The success of this gathering underscores Liverpool’s evolving food and drink scene, where wine is becoming an increasingly integral part of the city’s hospitality and retail landscape. Local wine professionals are at the forefront, educating consumers, curating exceptional wine selections, and crafting memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike.
The strong turnout and positive feedback from this second meeting clearly indicate a significant demand for professional development and networking within Liverpool’s burgeoning wine community. With plans already in motion for future gatherings, including exciting winery visits, the Curious Vines North West group is set to continue its impressive growth, fostering a supportive and inspiring environment for women in wine across the region.
To contact Curious Vines, please use this link Contact – Curious Vines