During her travels for the Women in Wine Expo, our founder Senay Ozdemir encounters remarkable women who showcase the unique wines and hospitality of their diverse cultures.

We are thrilled to shine a light on these extraordinary women in the wine industry through a series of interviews. This series not only highlights their contributions but also celebrates their incredible stories within the wine world.

IT”S TIME TO MEET MÓNIKA DEBRECZENI (WHO WILL BE ALSO CONDUCTING OUR MASTERCLASS ON HUNGARIAN RED WINES):

“I am captivated by the many expressions of grapes used to create wine. The philosophy and meticulous details behind winemaking make it incredibly intriguing. Just changing a single element can transform the entire outcome. I have a deep appreciation for the world of wine and the people within it. Ultimately, this process is guided by nature; we are all closely connected to Mother Earth and its natural rhythms.

When I entered the wine industry in the mid-1990s, I took on a part-time role at our newly established winery, primarily focusing on marketing. I wanted to deepen my understanding of wine and aspired to become a Master of Wine (MW). I remember feeling scared and anxious the first time I met someone with that title. I began my studies at WSET London and earned my Diploma in 2002. I was seriously contemplating pursuing further qualifications when my husband, the founder of the winery, passed away unexpectedly. Suddenly, I had no choice but to master our wines in real-time, and I found that I was no longer intimidated by MWs.

In the 1990s, when I started my journey, the world of wine seemed more distant from people. Communication was slower and more formal—though it’s difficult to generalize. Still, that world felt like it carried more significance. The positive aspect is that social media has bridged the gap between producers and consumers. Communication is now much quicker and less formal, making it easier to connect with anyone. There have been more changes in the wine industry in the past five years than in the previous few decades! This presents a significant challenge for all of us. We must adapt to rapidly changing markets, demands, and circumstances while meeting the needs of new generations who are less interested in wine and tend to consume different varieties.

One of my most memorable experiences was attending the first VINEXPO in Hong Kong in 1998. The event was small, primarily featuring French exhibitors, and we had no prior knowledge or experience—only three vintages behind us! Looking back, I’m not sure how we gathered the courage to participate. The entire event felt like a dream, and we met many significant people who would later shape our lives.

On the other hand, I have a troubling memory from a winery event involving rude and dismissive drunk male guests. It was an unsettling experience I will never forget.

I greatly admire Madame Colette Faller and her daughters, Catherine and Laurence, of Domaine Weinbach. I love their wines, adore Alsace, and respect their work. Her personal story reminds me a bit of my own. I have many questions about Demeter wines and would love to engage with them. Additionally, I have two daughters involved in our family business.

Looking ahead, I want to gradually step back from the business and pass management responsibilities to my daughter. The younger generation should tackle the new challenges we face. If they seek my advice, I will offer it; otherwise, I would like to pursue activities I didn’t have time for before.

The best advice I can give to other women in the wine industry? There might not be a single best piece of advice, but one important suggestion is to listen to your intuition; it will always lead you in the right direction.”

Meet Victoria Evans, sommelier and Head of wine strategy at Vinonovi Ltd.

“I worked in a wine bar during my university studies, and within three months, I discovered my ability to taste wines. After graduating from the National Defence University, I decided to shift my career plans from the Hungarian Army to the wine industry. I have a passion for wine and a desire to be successful in my field. While I initially aspired to be a sommelier, I find greater satisfaction in my current role, where I work with wineries and restaurants to develop strategies for our wine distribution company.

When I first entered the wine industry, my goal was to taste wines and gain as much knowledge as possible. However, two years later, in 2016, I set my sights on becoming the best sommelier in Hungary. I dedicated myself to this goal, completing my WSET Diploma studies in 2020 and winning the Hungarian Sommelier Championship. In 2020, I achieved my biggest milestone by becoming the first female sommelier to be crowned Hungarian sommelier champion.

Back in 2016, I envisioned that I wouldn’t want to work as a sommelier in my thirties, so I sought a different position in the wine industry. I eventually left my role as Executive Head Sommelier at an international restaurant group and joined my current workplace, Vinonovi Company. When I began my journey, there were only a few women in the sommelier field, but fortunately, this has changed. I like to believe I played a small part in this transformation. I aimed to make the sommelier profession more appealing to young women. The biggest challenge I faced over the last ten years was being a woman in the wine industry. It was not easy, particularly when dealing with winemakers, sommeliers, and restaurant owners. While I would love to say that those struggles are in the past, they are unfortunately still present, though the future looks promising.

One of my most fascinating experiences was the first time I demonstrated my wine and food pairing skills to a Master of Wine, Caroline Gilby MW, in 2018. Her kind words have left a lasting impression on me. However, I’ve also had a few unsettling experiences with some guests who initially did not take me seriously because of my appearance as a petite woman. In most cases, after about five minutes, they changed their attitudes and recognized my expertise in wine, but those initial experiences were not pleasant.
One individual I deeply admire is Frank Smulders MW. I have always appreciated his knowledge and witty sense of humor. I was fortunate to have him as a teacher in Rust, and two years ago, I became a buyer of his wines for the Hungarian market. I will always cherish our relationship.

Looking ahead, the Hungarian wine industry—and the global market—faces significant challenges. People are drinking less alcohol and wine in general, which is detrimental to the market. This trend is observed worldwide, and the industry needs to find effective solutions. I noticed this issue two years ago, so our wine company started importing de-alcoholized wines alongside our regular portfolio. In the future, these products will become increasingly important, and I intend to continue working with non-alcoholic and everyday wines for the coming decades. I still love wine and will always love it, and I want to provide alternatives that bring joy to those who cannot consume alcohol. To other women in the wine industry, my best advice is: do not let anyone bring you down. Being a female wine expert or sommelier is not about physical strength; a woman can be just as skilled as a man.

DOROTTYA BUSSAY, OWNER OF BUSSAY PINCE:

“My passion for the wine industry ignited from a deep appreciation for the art and science of winemaking. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about being part of a creative process that transforms raw ingredients into something refined and beautiful. Each season presents new challenges and opportunities, from the intricacies of grape cultivation to the nuances of fermentation. This constant evolution keeps me engaged and motivated to explore every facet of winemaking.

When I assumed the management of our family estate from my father, I entered the wine industry with a strong desire to prove my capabilities and demonstrate that I deserved my place in this esteemed field. Initially, I had lofty aspirations of standing shoulder to shoulder with established figures in wine, but over time, my focus shifted. I’ve realized that while ambition is important, the true testament to my work lies in the quality and integrity of our wines. This evolution has brought a new sense of purpose, as I now aim for recognition and a legacy grounded in excellence. 

Looking back on my journey, I’ve witnessed a remarkable shift towards sustainability within the wine industry, especially with a growing number of ecologically certified wineries emerging in Hungary and globally. Our estate proudly operates under these eco-friendly practices. Conversely, I’ve noticed a worrisome decline in wine consumption that has led to overproduction, placing additional strain on our industry. The challenges posed by climate variability further complicate these issues, forcing us to adapt and innovate to sustain our livelihoods.

One of my most unforgettable moments took place during a visit to a renowned wine region in Australia. I had the privilege of showcasing our unique local grape variety, Csókaszőlő and presenting the wines produced in Zala. It was incredible to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, and despite the thousands of kilometres that separated us, we discovered a shared passion for winemaking that transcended borders. On the flip side, I’ve faced some daunting challenges, such as the severe phytoplasma infection affecting our vineyards. This issue is not isolated to us; it’s a significant problem impacting many prestigious wine regions across Europe, and it weighs heavily on my mind.

While there isn’t a specific individual I aspire to meet, I hold a deep respect for many leaders in the wine industry. Their insights and experiences would be invaluable, but my focus remains on fostering connections within my network and learning from those around me.

As I gaze into the future, I acknowledge that the wine industry faces formidable challenges, such as declining consumption rates, increasing anti-alcohol sentiments, and the looming threats of climate change. However, I remain hopeful for innovation and diversification in how we approach these issues. Our estate is actively developing unique and original wines that can capture the interest of consumers, coupled with a new wine marketing strategy that aims to revitalize our presence in the market. I truly believe that with creativity and resilience, we can navigate these turbulent waters.

To the women aspiring to make their mark in the wine industry, my best advice is to seek a reliable and understanding partner—personally and professionally. It is essential to find someone who appreciates and comprehends the unique challenges and rewards of this exceptional profession, allowing you to thrive while navigating the complexities of the industry.”

BOGLÁRKA ÁDÁM, CEO WINELOVERS

“Like many others, my love for wine began as a hobby. My friends and I started learning about wine, visiting wine bars, and attending wine events. After the carefree fröccs (wine spritzer) days, a whole new world began to unfold before me. The final push came when I accidentally won a Tokaji wine tour. It was then that I realized I wanted to make wine my career, not just my hobby. At that time, I was working in a corporate environment that left me feeling drained and disconnected from nature. I decided to change my life because I wanted wine to be more than just something I enjoyed in my free time—I wanted it to become my profession. After all, how fortunate is someone who can live their passion? So, I quit my job and dove into the wine world, first as an event organizer and then as a marketing professional. Today, I am the CEO of a company that operates Hungary's first WSET wine school and organizes some of the most prestigious wine events in the country.

I am – and always have been – utterly enchanted by the world of wine. It’s not just the incredible diversity and uniqueness of each wine that captivates me, but also the personal stories, life journeys, and history behind every bottle. Above all, I deeply respect wine and winemakers, as wine is a living substance. While the romanticism of those early days still lingers, I now have a clearer understanding of the market's complexities. My goal today is to share my passion with as many people as possible and provide support to everyone involved in the industry, especially winemakers. I focus on education, marketing, and sales, prioritizing quality over quantity.

Like the rest of the wine world, Hungary faces many challenges. After the political changes in Hungary in 1989, the wine sector had to be rebuilt. Inspired by regions like Villány and Tokaj, high-quality wineries began to emerge nationwide, particularly in the 2000s, though those years were still a learning experience for many winemakers. Consumers were slow to adapt at first, but today, Hungary produces internationally outstanding wines, thanks to education efforts that have led more people to choose premium, vineyard-selected options. However, challenges persist. The hospitality and HoReCa sectors, which are crucial for wine sales, are still recovering from COVID-19. Meanwhile, the shrinking wine market, rising interest in non-alcoholic trends, economic difficulties, and a declining global middle class threaten the growth and survival of many wineries. This is one of the reasons I chose to work for my current company. At Borkollégium (Wine College), we train the next generation of wine enthusiasts, and through our Winelovers events and international wine competition, we connect winemakers with merchants and consumers—all while building a community of wine lovers. We aim to preserve this part of our culture because wine is much more than just alcohol.

My husband also works in the wine industry, and together we've built close, often friendly relationships with many winemakers and wineries. We tend to visit wine regions during our free time or vacations to relax and explore. Typically, we taste tank and barrel samples and reflect together over a glass of wine about market conditions, opportunities, challenges, and the contents of our glasses. These moments are deeply memorable and valuable, as they allow me to recharge and reconnect with my passion.

If I could choose anyone to meet, it would definitely be Gál Tibor. Unfortunately, he is no longer with us—Tibor was an internationally renowned Hungarian winemaker who tragically died at a young age in a car accident in South Africa. Through his many innovations, he significantly advanced the cause of Hungarian wine while working at some of the world’s top wineries and approaching winemaking with incredible humility. Though I never had the chance to meet him, I believe that had he lived longer, the global wine market would look very different today.

Looking ahead, economic challenges and international trends are not favorable for the wine market. Many wineries will struggle to survive, and the prices of premium wines will likely rise significantly. My mission is to mitigate this by protecting and promoting wine culture. We want to share the love of wine with future generations and carry this ancient tradition into the 22nd century. My advice to women in the industry is to trust their palates and follow their instincts. This is a field driven by passion and authenticity, and women bring a unique perspective to it. Build strong networks, never stop learning, and advocate for your ideas. Remember, wine is not just a business—it's culture, connection, and storytelling, and your voice can shape the future of the industry.”

ANNA BARTA, WINEMAKER

“I started working in the wine industry in 2009, just a few weeks before the harvest began. My role involved assisting in the intricate winemaking process, but I found myself navigating the challenges posed by two exceptionally experienced yet quite stubborn men, each speaking a different language. Their conflicting ideas and perspectives often led to tension, testing my problem-solving abilities from the start. 

The following year, 2010, was particularly trying as we faced the grim reality of a poor vintage. The grape yield was painfully low, with only a few hundred kilograms collected from a modest parcel of vines. I vividly recall the struggle, grappling with the scarcity of resources and the creativity demanded by such challenges.  Each year in winemaking offers unique hurdles, and I find immense satisfaction in overcoming them. There’s an undeniable thrill that accompanies discovering innovative solutions to complex problems. In the face of these challenges, we have a remarkable opportunity to improve our craft and create exceptional wines. The joy of working outdoors, surrounded by lush vineyards, adds to my passion for the industry.

When I first entered this world, at the tender age of 21, I was uncertain about my future in winemaking and hadn’t formed many grand dreams. However, as I delved deeper into the art and science of winemaking, my appreciation for its complexity blossomed. The wealth of knowledge to be gained is profound, and now my aspirations hinge on one day putting all I’ve learned into practice. As I near my 40s, I reflect on a shift in perspective; gone are the days when countless voices attempted to guide me in wine production—often parroting advice from those who had never truly worked with wine themselves. Now, it’s amusing that people seem less inclined to instruct me, ironically making the journey feel much more liberating.

My time in the industry is filled with numerous hilarious, absurd, and unforgettable moments that serve as cherished memories. One particularly vivid instance remains etched in my mind: we were in the midst of transferring wine from one tank to another when a pipe unexpectedly sprang a leak, drenching everyone in a cascade of red wine. On another occasion, a colleague inadvertently showered me with a bucket of crushed grapes, thinking he was handing it to me. Yet amidst the chaos and laughter, our focus remains steadfast on the ultimate goal: crafting the finest wines possible.

The resilience of winemakers is truly remarkable. We face increasingly unpredictable weather patterns; some seasons bring torrential rain, while others are marred by drought. Adaptability has become our greatest asset, allowing us to make the most of every opportunity that arises. Experience, therefore, is invaluable in our field, and it is comforting to know we can rely on it as we learn to navigate both dry and rainy vintages.

While I don’t yearn to meet a specific individual in the wine industry, I do deeply value my relationships with astute and supportive winemakers and microbiologists. They provide a wellspring of knowledge and guidance whenever I encounter a particularly perplexing problem.

Regrettably, the outlook for the wine industry seems dim at present. When I first started in 2009, wine sales far exceeded what we experience today. Yet, amid this uncertainty, there is a silver lining: more and more consumers are developing an appreciation for unique, distinctive wines. It’s encouraging to see a growing interest in the nuances of vintage and the impact of weather on our wines, particularly in Hungary, where the pressing issue of alcoholism often overshadows discussions about alcohol content.

To the women making their mark in the wine industry, my best advice is to seek out opportunities in unexpected avenues. Understanding the importance of managing household responsibilities during the harvest is crucial. If you have children preparing for school in September, consider stocking up on supplies in July. This foresight allows you to remain more focused during the bustling harvest season, paving the way for success.”

ivett vancsik, editor in chief Vince

“Initially, wine was just a hobby for me. Wine tastings provided the perfect context to connect with colleagues after work, offering a leisurely atmosphere that sparked conversations, deepened bonds, and created memorable moments. Over time, I came to appreciate wine not just for these social experiences but also for its unique character, taste, and structure. This curiosity led me to explore the stories behind the bottles and delve into the rich history and craftsmanship that make each wine special.

What drives me to continue on this path is the realization that wine is a never-ending journey filled with adventures, discoveries, lessons, and joy. It takes you to new places, both geographically and intellectually, and leaves you thirsty for more—literally and figuratively. This blend of connection, curiosity, and continuous learning keeps my passion alive every day.

With my marketing, communication, and management background, I saw an opportunity to combine my professional expertise with my passion for wine. I aimed to use storytelling, consumer experience, branding, and education to shape how people perceive and connect with wine—not just as a product but as an experience deeply tied to culture, history, and human connection. Like in any discipline, the deeper you dive into a subject, the more it fascinates you, sparking the urge to share your enthusiasm with others.

Looking at Hungary’s wine industry, one of the most notable positive changes has been the dramatic improvement in overall wine quality. Today, we can proudly showcase a diverse range of exceptional wines that compete on the global stage. The rise of small, pioneering producers has been particularly inspiring; their success stories have elevated Hungarian wines and deepened the connection between our heritage and contemporary wine culture.

At the same time, the wine industry faces multiple challenges. Its role and significance are shifting, especially as younger generations bring new values. Health consciousness, a focus on sustainability, and an interest in longevity are reshaping how people perceive and consume wine. Questions arise: Is wine an indulgence or a luxury product? Is it part of a balanced, mindful lifestyle or an alcoholic drink to avoid in order to preserve mental and physical health? There is a need to rethink how wine is produced, positioned, and communicated to resonate with a new generation of consumers.

If you ask me to pick one specific moment, I have to say that I have been blessed with many fantastic and sometimes profoundly emotional moments, making it difficult to pick just one. I cherish memories of walks through beautiful vineyards, enjoying exceptional wines, and engaging in conversations with winemakers and fellow wine lovers. I am grateful for all of these experiences.

There is one woman in wine I genuinely admire and that is Madeleine Puckett, the visionary founder of Wine Folly. She has transformed the way we experience and understand wine, bridging the gap between the often intimidating world of wine and everyday enthusiasts. She makes wine approachable and demystifies complex topics with clarity and charm. Her passion for education shines through her work, empowering people to explore, enjoy, and confidently discuss wine. She invites us into a world where learning about wine is as delightful as drinking it.

All professionals in the wine industry know that the future of our industry is as exciting as it is unpredictable. One thing we can be sure of is change—whether it’s shifting consumer preferences, the impact of climate change, or the evolution of technology. As the editor of a wine magazine, I believe adaptability is key to thriving in this ever-changing landscape. We must embrace new ideas, challenge old conventions, and rewrite the rules when necessary. In our work, this means staying curious, remaining flexible, and being unafraid to question the status quo. For me, it’s about fostering a dialogue within the wine world—highlighting emerging trends, celebrating diverse voices, and keeping the passion for wine alive and accessible to all by maintaining a mindset of openness and resilience.

The best advice I can give to other women in the wine industry is to stay passionate, curious, and open-minded. The wine industry thrives on community, and women are integral to that community.”