EDITION II: Raise Your Glass to The Strength, Love, and Passion of Women

In 1939, my grandmother, Gladys, launched her own fine arts and antique business in Gastonia, N.C. Long before it was common for women to run their own businesses, Gladys showed a trailblazing spirit. Then, during World War II, she closed the business to work temporarily in an artillery factory, only to return to her beloved shop. She would operate the business until she was 90.

Gladys is the woman who has had the single greatest influence on who I am today. Her impeccable taste in everything - art, food, lifestyle - inspired me to become obsessed with it myself. I cooked with her often as a child and inherited her love for elegant art. Perhaps most importantly, she showed me resilience. Passion. Dedication. 

All these years later, I think of her as I reflect on Mother’s Day. And she makes me think of the other important women who have inspired me with their passion and strength over the past few years. 

The two women featured in this edition of A Matter of Taste are great examples. As one of the largest biodynamic wine growers in Italy, Valentina Passalacqua grows and crafts pure Natural Wines while raising two beautiful daughters. And Isabelle Legeron, one of the 383 Masters of Wine in the world, has championed natural farming around the globe, working tirelessly to organize the largest network of international natural wine fairs, RAW Wines, in London, Berlin, Montreal, New York, and Los Angeles. 

I am also inspired every day by the women in our Dry Farm Wines Family. I remember when Rosetta joined a few years ago as the first woman. She immediately made an impact. Through her deep empathy, her spiritual touch, her wise life advice, she transformed me into a better person. I’m proud to call her my sister.

And now, I am thrilled to share a life journey with nine beautiful, soulful women at Dry Farm Wines, working tirelessly with humility and love in everything they do.

I am grateful to all the women in my life. I raise a glass to their love, their depth, their patience and guidance. They make an indelible contribution to our collective journey.

Todd White
Founder