Women on Boards Archives

UN Tourism Appoints Shaikha Al Nowais as First Female Secretary-General

In a landmark decision that redefines the leadership narrative of international tourism, UN Tourism has officially confirmed Shaikha Al Nowais as its next Secretary-General. Ratified during the 26th General Assembly held in Riyadh, this appointment not only signals continuity in the Organization’s progressive vision but also marks a watershed moment. Al Nowais will become the first woman to lead the United Nations specialized agency for tourism in its 50-year history.

Assuming office at the start of 2026, Al Nowais brings with her a distinguished career in the private sector, most notably as Corporate Vice President of Rotana Hotels, where she played a pivotal role in expanding the brand’s global footprint. Her influence extends beyond corporate corridors. She currently chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Tourism Working Group. She also serves on the boards of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council and Les Roches Hospitality Academy, reflecting her deep engagement with both business leadership and academic advancement within the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Addressing delegates at the Assembly, the Secretary-General-elect described her appointment as “a triumph for all of us”, underscoring that her leadership would embody the collective spirit and shared ambitions of a global sector at a turning point. She outlined five strategic priorities shaping her mandate: responsible tourism, capacity building, technology for good, innovative financing, and smart governance. Together, these themes reflect a vision that integrates inclusivity, resilience, and ethical stewardship into the fabric of tourism governance.

Al Nowais emphasized that the future of tourism must be “human-centred and globally connected,” capable of uplifting communities while addressing the twin imperatives of sustainability and innovation. Her remarks resonated with ongoing discussions at the Assembly, where Member States reinforced commitments to tourism as a catalyst for social and economic regeneration.

Paying tribute to outgoing Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, Al Nowais commended his “vision, commitment, and role in strengthening UN Tourism’s voice and global presence.” Under his tenure, the Organization advanced critical work on investment, education, and innovation, foundations that Al Nowais is poised to expand upon as she assumes leadership for the 2026–2030 term.

The appointment of Shaikha Al Nowais was the focal point of a dynamic opening day at the General Assembly, which gathered representatives from 160 Member States for four plenary sessions and multiple committee meetings. The Assembly followed the 124th session of the UN Tourism Executive Council, where discussions centred on strengthening partnerships, deepening investment frameworks, and fostering equitable opportunities across the global tourism ecosystem.

Shaikha Al Nowais’s leadership marks not only a symbolic but also a substantive breakthrough, redefining how tourism’s global governance can serve as an engine of progress, inclusion, and cultural understanding.

Liz Palmer – Wine Journalist receives the 2025 ITER VITIS + The Council of Europe Award for Communication

“I am thrilled and deeply honoured to receive the 2025 ITER VITIS Award for Communication, recognizing my global advocacy in promoting wine culture, education, and responsible tourism.”

The award was presented a few days ago at the ITER VITIS Conference in Thessaloniki, Greece. This inspiring event brought together international experts and institutions to explore how wine tourism can drive a greener, more inclusive, and innovative future across Europe.

My heartfelt “Thank You” to ITER VITIS – Cultural Routes of the Vine and Wine, the Council of Europe’s Cultural Routes Programme, and to all those working to preserve and celebrate the cultural, historical, and sustainable heritage of wine.

This recognition reinforces my lifelong commitment to advancing the dialogue between wine, culture, and sustainability – connecting people and places through the shared language of the vine.

Stay tuned for a full press release!

Liz Palmer
Thessaloniki, Greece

A Historic Milestone for DOCa Rioja: Raquel Pérez Cuevas Becomes First Female President

In a landmark moment coinciding with its centennial, the DOCa Rioja Regulatory Council has appointed Raquel Pérez Cuevas as its first female president. Her election, supported by 99% of the council, signals a transformative step in Spain’s most prestigious wine appellation.

Pérez Cuevas brings decades of leadership as CEO of Bodegas Ontañón and former vice-president of Grupo Rioja. Her presidency comes at a time of significant challenges, including market contraction, generational decline in viticulture, and tensions between large and small producers.

She has pledged to foster inclusivity and dialogue across all sectors of Rioja’s wine community, emphasizing unity over uniformity. With a background in agricultural engineering, oenology, and business management, her vision aims to steer Rioja through economic, generational, and institutional renewal.

“This is a new era for Rioja, one rooted in listening, collaboration, and respect for our shared legacy,” Pérez Cuevas affirmed.

Liz Palmer’s Exclusive Interview with Jamie Williams of Nederburg Wines, SA + Wine Tasting Notes

Jamie Williams’s career in winemaking began a decade ago with an internship in the laboratory and cellar at Die Bergkelder, the home of Fleur du Cap Wines in Stellenbosch. This opportunity followed her graduation with a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from Stellenbosch University. Her passion for viticulture and oenology deepened in 2016 during a harvest season in Napa, California, where she gained valuable international experience. Williams further honed her skills through multiple harvests across the Stellenbosch District while also working in wine tasting rooms and sales to broaden her industry knowledge. In 2018, her dedication and expertise led to her appointment as assistant winemaker at Nederburg Wines , marking a significant milestone in her professional journey. Jamie is now Winemaker of White and Rose wines at Nederburg Wines.

Liz Palmer: Which influential women in the wine industry have inspired you throughout your journey?

Jamie Williams: I am very blessed to have worked with mostly women winemakers for the past 10 years! Andrea Freeborough who is the Head of winemaking for Heineken Beverages and Elmarie Botes who was the winemaker at Nederburg Wines when I started at Nederburg as an assistant, and both of whom I still work very closely with, has molded me into the winemaker I am today. Shaina Harding, winemaker at Hunnicutt Wines where I worked at in Napa Valley has shown me how tough women can be when working physically in the cellar and nothing is ever too heavy or difficult to do as a woman in the cellar, working with mostly men.

Liz Palmer: Could you share a particularly memorable experience or achievement in your illustrious career?

Jamie Williams: My most recent achievement winning Gold at the Drinks Business Global Sauvignon blanc Masters for the Nederburg Winemaster’s Sauvignon blanc 2024. Only one of 2 South African Wines to achieve Gold in that category.

Liz Palmer: Congratulations !!

Liz Palmer: What recent technological innovations have you and your team integrated into your winemaking process?

Jamie Williams: At Nederburg, we have always tried to maintain being a leader in innovative winemaking techniques. My approach this year, however, was taking it back to the past. We played around with some skin contact old vine Chenin Blanc in Amphorae clay pots that we have imported from Italy. On the analytical side we are sending our wines for sensory analysis and benchmarking how we are faring vs our competitors and what the consumer wants. Most of our wines are also vegan and vegetarian-friendly.

Liz Palmer: How do you ensure sustainability and uphold environmental responsibility in your vineyard and winery operations?

Jamie Williams: Nederburg Wines is IPW (Integrated Production of Wines) compliant, meaning we are fully traceable with production integrity of our wines we craft. We have also earned WWF Conservation Champion status, thanks to our water and energy conservation measures. On the farm we have also planted Grenache and Carignan which are drought-resistant varieties to combat climate change. Our delicate and sophisticated Winemaster’s Grenache Carignan Rose is made from these grapes.

Liz Palmer: What are your perspectives on the No and Low Alcohol Wine Revolution, and how has your wine estate adapted to this burgeoning movement?

Jamie Williams: As a winemaker, No and Low alcohol wine is not much used in my vocabulary as there is so much, chemically and sensorially, that alcohol brings to wine and to strip that away makes the wine not as beautiful as what you initially crafted. However, being a mom to currently 2 toddler boys, it is difficult for me to consume a bottle of wine with an alcohol of 13.5% or higher as my boys keep me on my toes. After 2 glasses I am done! This is why I understand the need for lower alcohol wines for enjoyment that will last longer. At Nederburg we have experimented with low alcohol wines in the cellar, but nothing in the bottle.

Liz Palmer: How do you and your team stay abreast of the latest trends and advancements in the wine industry?

Jamie Williams: We do constant benchmark tastings to ensure that we are abreast of our competitors. I also love to attend seminars where suppliers will offer their latest technology and hearing from other winemakers what has worked for them. The South African wine industry is very tight knit!

Liz Palmer: What advice would you offer to young women aspiring to enter the wine industry?

Jamie Williams: Be prepared to face challenges in this male dominated industry. I have been blessed enough to work with mostly women which made it easier for me to delve in, but I still faced challenges. Always work hard and believe in yourself. I have been told by another winemaker whom I looked up to that I will never be a winemaker. Those words just motivated me even more to prove them wrong. Always have God at the center and a good support system at home.

Wine Tasting Notes

Nederburg Heritage Heroes “The Brew Master” 2020

This is a wine of remarkable depth and refinement. Its dark ruby hue sets the stage for a sensory journey, with aromas of ripe blueberries and luscious black cherries intertwined with nuances of tobacco leaf, dark chocolate, with hints of spice. On the palate, the wine reveals a harmonious tannin structure, offering complexity and layers that unfold elegantly with every sip. Its long, enduring finish leaves an indelible impression of sophistication.

Crafted from a masterful blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (64%), Petit Verdot (18%), Cabernet Franc (11%), Merlot (4%), and Malbec (3%), this wine is matured for 29 months in French and American oak, delivering a robust, fruit-forward character. With its powerful presence and rich fruit profile, Nederburg “The Brew Master” is a true expression of excellence.

Liz Palmer
92 Points

“Winemasters” Chardonnay Nederburg 2022

This wine is a testament to Nederburg’s dedication to crafting elegant and expressive wines. This Chardonnay showcases a vibrant and lively character, with aromas of honeyed apples and crisp citrus zest that leap from the glass. On the palate, it reveals a refreshing steely acidity, beautifully balanced by a creamy texture and subtle citrus and apricot. The wine’s texture is both clean and rounded, offering a harmonious interplay of freshness and richness.

Liz Palmer
91 Points

Trailblazing Winemaker Susana Balbo: An Exclusive Interview with Liz Palmer + Tasting Notes

Susana Balbo, a trailblazer in the wine industry, renowned for her pioneering contributions as Argentina’s first female winemaker and the visionary owner of Susana Balbo Wines. Her academic journey began with a transition from nuclear physics to enology, culminating in her graduation with honors from Don Bosco University in Mendoza in 1981. Navigating the challenges posed by a traditionally male-dominated profession, she revolutionized the Argentine wine sector and gained recognition for her innovative approach to viticulture. Her expertise in cultivating and refining Torrontés—a signature white grape variety of Argentina—earned her the title of “Queen of Torrontés.” Today, Susana Balbo’s winery stands as a testament to her resilience, creativity, and commitment to elevating Argentine wines on the global stage.

Expanding on her extraordinary journey and accomplishments, Susana Balbo opens up with me in this thoughtful and engaging interview, offering invaluable insights into her experiences, challenges, and aspirations for the future.

Liz Palmer: Which influential women in the wine industry have inspired you throughout your journey?

Susana Balbo: In my early days in Cafayate, I did not know any. There was no internet; I lived in a completely isolated town. We did not have a telephone, let alone any means of communication to connect with other women in the world. I did not travel the world either. Therefore, my inspiration has fundamentally been an obsession with quality. One of my teachers was Father Francisco Oreglia, who was the founder of the Technological School of Oenology and Fruit and Vegetable Industries in Mendoza. He was a perfectionist, and always inspired me to do things exceptionally well, constantly improving and getting better. However, at that time, I did not know any women from the wine world. Once the internet became available and information was easier to access, I already had over fifteen years of experience in my profession and was traveling around the world as a wine consultant. Honestly, I consider myself a self-made woman.

Liz Palmer: Could you share a particularly memorable experience or achievement in your illustrious career?

Susana Balbo: When I arrived in Cafayate, Salta, in 1981, Torrontés made up 75% of the grapes planted in the winery where I worked. Therefore, either I had to learn how to make good Torrontés wines or my job would not last long. Putting that aside, which is more anecdotal today, what I do differently is to work in a very respectful way with the variety, leaving aside some aromas in order to achieve complexity and elegance. What I see in Torrontés is an incredible versatility that allows you to create all kinds of things: you can make alcohol-free juices, low-alcohol wines with interesting aromas, natural sweet wines for young people who enjoy sweet, chilled wines, more serious wines fermented in oak barrels, and you can even use it for blends. It is a variety of extraordinay versatility, and it expresses a very distinct personality depending on the soil and terroir where it is grown. Its possibilities are endless.

A more recent achievement for which I feel deeply grateful is being recognized by Decanter with the prestigious Decanter Hall of Fame 2024 award. I share this accomplishment with my team, who have supported me throughout the years, and especially with my two children, who have been by my side for the past 12 years.

Liz Palmer: What recent technological innovations have you and your team integrated into your winemaking process?

Susana Balbo: We have recently implemented several technological innovations in our winemaking process. One of them is the use of a press that employs inert gases, allowing us to better preserve the quality of the must during pressing by minimizing oxidation.

Additionally, we are using clayvers and amphorae in various shapes (spherical, oval, horizontal, and vertical) to determine which provides the best results in both the fermentation and aging of white wines.

We have also incorporated the use of special barrels, known as “Perle,” which work under pressure and enable carbonic maceration and fermentation with minimal intervention. This results in red wines with remarkable aromatic purity and excellent structure.

Liz Palmer: How do you ensure sustainability and uphold environmental responsibility in your vineyard and winery operations?

Susana Balbo: We believe that sustainability means performing actions with commitment. That is why we have worked as a team on defining our purpose: we nurture a culture of shared growth in all our relationships, aiming to boost the development of people and resources. We always work on creating value in terms of sustainability’s three dimensions: the people, the environment and the business.

As regards the environment, we focus on its preservation in every step of the winemaking process: from the vineyard to the bottle. Regarding the vineyards, we take care of them with the highest global standards of quality and sustainability. Significantly, our vineyard in Agrelo (where the winery is located) is certified organic, showcasing our dedication to environmentally friendly practices. Our daily hard work, for instance, is reflected on the Sustainability Certificate issued by Bodegas de Argentina. In addition, last year we renewed our BRC Global Standard for Food Safety certification, an achievement that reveals our commitment to quality and the environment. Some of the winery’s eco-friendly practices I can mention are: managing the use of energy in our daily activities, disposing of waste in a responsible manner and recycling important materials such as cork, wood, cardboard and nylon, using kraft boxes and bottles that are lighter than the traditional ones, implementing a drip irrigation system for vineyards and reusing sewer water coming from the common-use areas, among others.

Liz Palmer: What are your perspectives on the No and Low Alcohol Wine Revolution, and how has your wine estate adapted to this burgeoning movement?

Susana Balbo: As a winery that constantly pursues innovation, we believe it is important to offer products that meet the needs of these consumers. In 2022, we launched our sub-line CRIOS SUSTENTIA, focused on responsible consumption and ecological awareness. Under this premise, we offer a Chardonnay—being exclusively for the international market—with an alcohol content of 8 to 9 degrees, considered as a “light wine.” It is low in alcohol by Argentine standards, where due to our climate, it is easy for both whites and rosés—and even more so for red wines—to reach levels above 13 degrees.

Liz Palmer: How do you and your team stay abreast of the latest trends and advancements in the wine industry?

Susana Balbo: We stay up to date with the latest trends and advancements in the wine industry through continuous learning about new developments. This includes reading scientific journals, attending technological conferences, and participating in technical talks. Additionally, we keep close contact with industry colleagues, which enriches our knowledge and allows us to exchange experiences.

Liz Palmer: What advice would you offer to young women aspiring to enter the wine industry?

Susana Balbo: To be able to lead and make changes in the industry we sometimes have to leave our comfort zone.

Another piece of advice is to focus on making quality wines, each of them reflecting the doer’s personality. Likewise, the story behind a wine must be consistent with that wine and with what the consumer tastes. A wine is recommended to others when the consumer and the clients quickly perceive consistency. Therefore, to enter into the world of wine, one must be convinced that there is a rocky road ahead but it is not an impossible road to take. This path should be clearly consistent with one’s goals.

Wine Tasting Notes
Susana Balbo Signature Malbec 2022
and
Susana Balbo Signature Barrel Fermented Torrontés 2024

Susana Balbo Signature Barrel Fermented Torrontés 2024

This Torrontés is the first of its kind, produced with grapes from Paraje Altamira, Valley de Uco in Mendoza at 3,770 feet.

A luminous pale golden hue. On the nose, it offers a captivating bouquet of orange blossom and white peach, complemented by subtle undertones of nutmeg and vanilla derived from its four months of fermentation in French oak barrels. On the palate, the wine delivers a lively and harmonious profile, with vibrant floral and citrus notes balanced by a creamy texture with some hints of toast from the oak. Its crisp acidity provides excellent structure, leading to a refined and lingering finish. This innovative expression of Torrontés highlights the influence of high-altitude vineyards in Paraje Altamira, Valle de Uco.
92 Points
Liz Palmer

Susana Balbo Signature Malbec 2022

“Making great wines requires courage, determination and passion. With over forty years of experience since my start as the first female winemaker in Argentina I am proud to off the best of myself through my signature wines. This Malbec is one of the most cherished wines from my winery. Produced with grapes from Paraje Altamira, Valley de Uco in Mendoza at 3,770 feet” Susana Balbo

This Malbec exemplifies elegance and depth, showcasing the unique character of high-altitude Mendoza vineyards. In the glass, it reveals a deep ruby color with violet undertones. The nose is expressive and layered, offering aromas of ripe blackberries, plums, and blueberries, intertwined with hints of violet, mocha, and a touch of sweet spice.

On the palate, this Susana Balbo Signature Malbec is full-bodied yet impeccably balanced, with silky tannins and a vibrant acidity that provides structure and freshness. The fruit flavors are complemented by subtle notes of dark chocolate and toasted oak, a result of careful aging in French oak barrels. The finish is long and refined, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and complexity.
92 Points
Liz Palmer

Susana Balbo Website: https://en.susanabalbowines.com.ar/