Marusia Osikovska: Working with wine is very pleasant and broad-spectrum
Continuing our series on incredible women in the wine industry, today’s spotlight shines on Marusia Osikovska — the heart and soul behind Златен Рожен/Zlaten Rozhen!
From nurturing a deep connection to the Melnik region to cultivating the family-owned vineyards, Marusia has woven her passion for culture, tradition, and art into every bottle. Her journey reflects a commitment to blending traditional techniques with modern innovation, ensuring that every sip tells a story of dedication and quality.
We’re thrilled that Marusia took the time to share her inspiring story with us. Read more below:
What is wine for you?
Wine, for me, is culture, a lifestyle, a connection to a region, and a way to deliciously showcase the history and traditions of our country. As a co-owner and manager of Zlaten Rozhen, every detail of the winery and hotel passes through not just my approval, but also my understanding of aesthetics and partnership. Wine makes our lives more beautiful and delicious, more shared, and is a connecting link for various businesses in one region – tourism, art, and culinary arts.
How did you enter the wine industry?
I would like to say by chance, but in life, there are no random things, especially when they remain long-lasting. My family and I often traveled to the Melnik region; later, we baptized our children in the Rozhen Monastery, and thus the area attracted us as a business opportunity. We started with our family hotel in the village of Rozhen, and then laid the foundations of our wine business by purchasing our own vineyards and building a winery.
What is your philosophy in making/marketing wine, and how is it reflected in your product?
We strive to balance tradition and modernity, both in the style of our wines and in their marketing. This way, we remain true to the region and its traditions, working with local varieties from our own vineyards close to the winery. But we also incorporate modern technologies, work with consultants, and strive to maintain consistently high quality.
How important do you consider education and training in the wine industry, and are there any special programs for women?
Education is highly valued in our industry. We work with specialists in the field, consult, and strive to keep up with innovations. I wouldn’t say there are special programs for women.
What advice would you give to young women who want to enter the wine business?
Working with wine is very pleasant and broad-spectrum; it requires flexibility, adaptability, communication skills, a sense of aesthetics, and an eye for detail. All of this should sound attractive to ladies looking for a dynamic profession and wishing to continuously enhance their skills. There are many inspiring women in the wine industry.
