MODESTO, Calif. — E. & J. Gallo Winery, through its Wine Dialogues platform, launched the Women Behind the Wine initiative to support professional development of women in the food and beverage business. This multi-faceted campaign focuses on the advancement and achievements of women in the industry.

“There is a tremendous opportunity to support women wanting to enter the industry or advance their careers in wine and spirits,” stated Joe Gallo, vice president of LUX Wines and Channel Marketing. “Our field is complex, challenging, and most importantly, growing. Women Behind the Wine empowers women with meaningful educational experiences and champions a more innovative and inclusive category.”

Women Behind the Wine (#womenbehindthewine) will:

• Advance Education through $100,000 in Scholarships – From candidates aspiring to be a Master Sommelier to college students studying enology, a $100,000 grant to Women of the Vine & Spirits Foundation (www.womenofthevine.com) will provide women in the food, wine, spirits, viticulture and hospitality industry the ability to pursue their education ambitions.
• Celebrate Female Leadership – In an ongoing campaign, Women Behind the Wine will highlight some of today’s most inspiring female leaders in the industry. In-store displays, trade events and print and social media will amplify these diverse and motivating stories to encourage others to follow in their footsteps.
• Generate Community Involvement through “Buy Wine, Fuel Dreams” Opportunity – Together with E. & J. Gallo Winery’s retail and on-premise partners, consumers will be able to support the empowerment of women in the wine industry. The campaign aims to encourage conversation and networking among women and their allies, leading for support of women in the industry today and in the future.

Women Behind the Wine is an extension of the E. & J. Gallo Winery culture that encourages personal and professional development and celebrates the collaborative and innovative environment that is created when a person is recognized for their individual talents and potential. Join the movement and follow the Women Behind the Wine initiative at www.winedialogues.com/wbtw, www.facebook.com/winedialogues and www.instagram.com/winedialogues.