​Since ancient times viticulture and winemaking, like farming in general, has been dominated by men: According to the biblical narrative the first vintner was Noah who planted a vine after the flood waters receded. Yet in recent years, both in South Africa and globally, with a blend of determination, passion, a keen palate and an ability to think creatively many women have succeeded in closing the gender gap in the world of wine. 

Despite these advances however, the subject of "Women of Wine" often comes up in the media only at predictable times, usually before International Women’s Day, for example.

David Silverman’s long-term project goes beyond this stereotype and recognizes the contribution of a select group of women winemakers and viticulturists in South Africa, not for their gender but for their contribution to the industry, for their dedication to viticultural heritage and excellence, and their elegant, creative and exciting wines.

“An international award-winning photographer, a selection of David Silverman's pictures from this project will be displayed at the next Terroirs d ‘Images exhibit and will be published in the Revue des Oenologues as well as the Wine & Business Club magazine. This will do much to increase the profile of South Africa’s women winemakers and viticulturists and, by extension, that of women in other areas of the industry: sales, marketing, distribution and logistics, technical and scientific support and education, to name a few,” said Cathy van Zyl MW. 

A wide edit of the photographs from this project has been uploaded to the Getty Images international photography archive for editorial use worldwide.