The women shaking up the drinks industry
Women have better palates according to countless studies backed up by wine high priestess Jancis Robinson MW. So no wonder we’re challenging for supremacy in every area of the drinks business from whisky, sherry and mezcal to the most innovative alcohol-free libations.
New Zealander Melanie Brown has single-handedly changed the perception of New Zealand wine – showing there are far more varieties and flavours beyond the big brands. The gregarious Brown was previously sommelier/wine buyer for chef Peter Gordon’s restaurants; today her pocket rocket of a shop/wine bar is packed into a shipping container at POP Brixton. As well as selling retail, wines by the glass are on offer with low mark-up and drinkers can wander around the other street vendors in Pop Brixton with their New Zealand Cellar libations, albeit in plastic glasses.
