I just got back from a great trip to the Douro Valley in Portugal. I was thrilled to see the number of women working in the wine industry there. And I admit, surprised. I think Portugal surprised me in general. I had been there on three different occasions but this time I really fell in love. Sometimes you fall in love at first sight, other times it takes a bit longer or doesn’t happen at all. The women I met were winemakers, owners, marketing and sales, and laboratory assistants. I saw women picking grapes and sorting them as well. I will be writing about all of these experiences in the coming weeks but I am pleased to report that women seem to be a strong part of the wine industry in the Douro Valley.