Point of View: The Japan Wine Challenge, A New Zealand Judge's Perspective
Having judged at the Japan Wine Challenge in both 2024 and 2025, I’m looking forward to returning to the role in Tokyo this October.
New Zealand Winegrowers General Manager Brand, Charlotte Read, joined winemakers Alice Rule, Jane Cooper, Jannine Rickards, and Lauren Yap on the list, along with Loveblock owner and sustainability leader Erica Crawford, New Zealand wine and food champion Celia Hay, Invivo Marketing Manager Rachael Everitt, and liquor retail specialist Aroha Jakicevich.
Many of the other women on the list are deeply involved in hospitality, including the celebration of New Zealand wine.
In introducing the list, Cuisine Editor, Kelli Brett noted that influence comes in many forms.
"It can be found in someone who has an established brand and access to a massive number of people, but also in someone who works quietly in the background to instigate positive change."
