Tsvetelina Nikolova, CEO of Katarzyna Estate: I encourage women in the wine industry to dedicate thеmselves to every aspect of winemaking

The Balkan International Wine Competition and Festival is launching a new series that will introduce you to the stories of women making a mark in the wine industry. Our first encounter is with Tsvetelina Nikolova, CEO of Katarzyna Estate, who shares more about her challenges and successes. The aim of this initiative is to highlight the important role of women in shaping the wine industry. Read her answers to some interesting questions below.

What does wine mean to you?

For me, wine is a true experience that awakens the senses and creates special moments to share with friends and family. It’s an expression of passion and dedication to the art of being crafted and then presented in the best way possible to evoke an exciting emotion. Wine represents a unique and incomparable experience that unites taste, aroma, and history into one. Wine is a journey, inspiration, and delight.

On a professional level, working in the wine business is a huge challenge for me. It requires constant monitoring of global trends in winemaking as well as serious training.

How did you enter the wine industry?

I would say – quite by accident, but I almost immediately realized that wine was a huge challenge and without hesitation, I dedicated my life to it. To this date, I can assert that I have made the best choice.

What is your philosophy in creating/marketing wine, and how does it reflect in your product?

I follow the philosophy that creating and marketing wine is rooted in respecting the land, traditions, and the perfection of the production process. At Katarzyna Estate, we believe in the uniqueness of each wine and strive to present it as a story told through each bottle. We adhere to high standards of quality in the production of our wines, using selected grape varieties and ensuring careful and precise monitoring of every stage of the winemaking process. I can assert that each of our wines is unique and reflects the character of our cellar and terroir. It carries a distinctive signature and is easily recognizable on the market. Personally, I believe that education on the topic of “wine” is the key to a better understanding and appreciation of it. We organize various events, tastings, and initiatives to share our passion and enrich the knowledge of our clients. We strive to create a space where people can share experiences and enjoy exceptional wines together.

What importance do you place on education and training in the wine industry, and are there special programs for women?

At Katarzyna Estate, we place great importance on education and training. Understanding the production process, the diverse grape varieties and their characteristics, as well as the elements of the wine tasting experience are crucial for us. We have specialized training for the team – both for new colleagues and for upgrading knowledge. Our goal is to create a team of competent and motivated specialists who can share their knowledge and love of wine with our clients. Regarding the question of special programs for women, I support equality and diversity in every sphere, including winemaking. I participate in various initiatives and conferences aimed at supporting women in this and other industries, providing opportunities for training, mentorship, and professional development. I believe in the power of diversity and the importance of including women in the wine world!

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

I would advise them to follow their hearts, and if they intend to dedicate their lives to winemaking and the wine profession in general, to study the wine world and seriously educate themselves in the field. Practice and experience are of particular importance. Let them participate in different segments of the wine business if possible. Work in the vineyards, in the production process, conduct tastings, and why not in marketing. This will help them understand the industry from different perspectives. To be dedicated to wine because it is an art and a business that requires devotion and love for detail. If they combine their passion for this profession with hard work and effort, they cannot help but succeed. And most importantly – do not be afraid to be bold and innovative. The wine business is dynamic and needs innovators!