Snezhana Mutafchiiska: Education combined with practical experience makes the best formula for a quality product

In the heart of Bulgaria’s wine country, Snezhana Mutafchiiska has been shaping the future of viticulture with her enduring passion and innovative spirit at Wine Cellar Roxs (Roxs Winery). With a journey in winemaking spanning nearly four decades, Snezhana stands as a testament to dedication and love for the craft. At Roxs Winery, she merges tradition with modern techniques to create wines that not only reflect the rich terroir of the region but also her philosophy of quality and excellence. As we explore her story in our series, presenting women in the wine industry, Snezhana offers a unique glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of a life dedicated to winemaking, and how she became a beacon for aspiring vintners, especially women, in a predominantly male industry.

What does wine mean to you?

For me, wine encompasses my entire conscious life. For nearly 40 years, I’ve been involved in winemaking. My family and children grew up amidst the constant cycle from harvest to harvest, making the years fly by unnoticed.

How did you enter the wine industry?

I entered the wine industry after graduating from the Higher Institute of Food and Flavor Industries – Technology of Wine and Canning. Since distant 1985, I’ve been an integral part of this incredible process.

What is your philosophy on winemaking, and how is it reflected in your product?

My philosophy has always centered on product quality. Over the years, I’ve strived to learn more about winemaking. The most important aspect is focusing on grape quality and managing the alcoholic fermentation process correctly. Marketing plays a crucial role, participating in exhibitions where people can taste your wine and decide if they like it. This is just one facet; many other marketing aspects are essential, like having a website, being active on social media, participating in competitions, tastings, etc.

How important do you consider education and training in the wine industry, and are there any special programs for women?

For me, the science of oenology is paramount. Education combined with practical experience makes the best formula for a quality product. It’s crucial to know what you want to achieve and to visualize the wine you’ll make from the grapes you have. I’ve never stopped reading about new developments in winemaking and literature from all over the world. This has greatly helped me produce wines that are well-received in the market.

What advice would you give to young women who want to enter the wine business?

My advice has always been to have a desire to make wine and for it to be their passion, not just a job. Without love, nothing turns out well. Secondly, forget the idea that post-education, you’ll only work; it requires a lot of reading, experiments, travel, and tasting many different wines. You must be fully dedicated to wine, otherwise, it won’t work. The laboratory should be your best friend because every process has a scientific explanation. Love and smiles are my motto – when you’re positive, things work out.