#WomensMonth | Elizabeth George on finding confidence in the wine cellar

Source: Supplid | Elizabeth George, Cellar Assistant, Groot Constantia

Over 28 years, George has continued to build her knowledge through training in winemaking, wine evaluation, aroma identification and barrel management, while adapting to changes in cellar technology and practices.

For Women’s Month, Bizcommunity spoke to George about her long career at the estate, the evolution of winemaking, finding confidence in the cellar and what she believes women need to build lasting careers in the wine industry.

You have spent 28 years at Groot Constantia, beginning in the vineyards before moving into the cellar. What inspired you to pursue a career in wine, and what has kept you passionate?

Being able to continue learning and experimenting and be innovative every year. Bring something different, especially during harvest where we work with different types of yeast and different cultivars and experiment with what works best.

I have been driven by faith in my purpose and a very supportive family, especially my late husband.

As a woman who has built a long career in the cellar, what challenges have shaped your confidence at work?

One thing I have learnt while working with men is that they don't always accept a woman's opinion. You should not be scared to use your skills.

It has taught me to have confidence in myself and to stand by what I know and believe in while still maintaining good working relationships with others.

You have seen major changes in winemaking technology and practices. What has changed most, and what remains essential?

There have been changes in the lab, we make use of a balling meter to test and determine the sugar levels.

Barrel maintaining between old and new barrels for Groot Constantia has a very long history; it is important that we continue to innovate and leave our mark while respecting that history.

How important has continuous learning been to your career?

I believe you develop yourself and your personal growth and put value to the product.

What more can the wine industry do to support women pursuing long-term careers and leadership roles?

They can start by making more opportunities visible for woman to use their skills and express their opinions, not be afraid to speak up and take the lead and do so with confidence, persistence and respect for others.

What still excites you about harvest after 28 years?

To see new growth every year and the great value of the contribution to the production of the vineyards.

What advice would you give to young women considering careers in wine?

Be persistent, use your skills, don't be afraid to express your opinions, and never get discouraged.

As South Africa marks Women's Month, what would you like women in the wine industry to leave behind for the next generation?

I would like women to leave behind a legacy of being innovative, sustainable and willing to take the lead.