Emily Faulconer has emerged as one of the most influential figures in Chile’s wine industry, topping the rankings in Los Más Influyentes del Vino, a survey hailed by its organizers as “clearly revealing” of the industry’s evolving leadership. Faulconer’s rapid ascent — from her beginnings at Viñedos de Alcohuaz in the northern Andes to her roles at Viña Carmen, and now as the technical director of Viñedos Familia Chadwick — underscores her central role in shaping the future of Chilean winemaking.
At the helm of the iconic Seña and Viñedo Chadwick labels, Faulconer takes on a responsibility once held by Francisco Baettig, who played a pivotal role in crafting Chile’s reputation for ultra-premium wines. Known for her leadership in high-profile projects, Faulconer is seen as both a bold and necessary figure in ensuring the continued success of these celebrated wines. “She’s a young face in Chilean winemaking who has already led major projects in our country,” says advanced sommelier Marcelo Pino. Her transition is described as both a natural evolution and a significant step toward the renewal of Chile’s wine leadership.
Carrying the Legacy of Seña and Chadwick
Faulconer’s stewardship of Seña and Chadwick is seen as a continuation of their legacy, with the 2022 vintage of Seña still reflecting Baettig’s influence. However, Faulconer is already making her mark. “I’m happy… I feel very challenged. I’m eager to participate in the next stage of what Viñedo Chadwick and Seña are,” she shared with the tasting panel. These wines are crucial in determining Chile’s position on the global wine stage, and under her guidance, they are expected to reach new heights.
Industry peers have praised her leadership. MontGras winemaker Benjamín Leiva lauds her as the leader of the most successful winery in terms of quality and consistency. Rafael Urrejola, recently named Winemaker of the Year, commends her passion, experience, and successful track record at a young age. Her calm demeanor and clear vision are often cited as key to her growing influence in the field.
A Generational Shift Led by Women
Faulconer is not alone in shaping the future of Chilean winemaking. Other women are emerging as significant contributors to the industry’s growth and diversification. Teresita Ovalle, recently named Best Young Winemaker by La CAV Tasting Panel Guide, has made a name for herself with her work at Santa Rita’s Floresta line, bringing a cosmopolitan sensibility to her terroir-specific wines. Meanwhile, Rosario Fillol, now leading Viñedos de Alcohuaz, is continuing the legacy of Marcelo Retamal in producing high-altitude wines that are expanding Chile’s winemaking horizons.
At Emiliana, Noelia Orts has been a driving force in organic winemaking, overseeing wines like Coyam and Gê. Praised for her relaxed yet precise approach, Orts highlights a paradox within the industry: “There are more women winemakers in Chile than in my country, Spain, but few in executive roles.” Her observation points to the ongoing shift in leadership dynamics within the industry.
Rising Stars in Chile’s Wine Industry
Several other winemakers are also gaining recognition. Natalia Poblete of Casa Bauzá has elevated the small operation in the Maipo foothills to national relevance. Her personal label, Moretta Wines, developed alongside María José Ortúzar, showcases her stylistic clarity and discipline. Felipe García and Eduardo Jordán have praised Poblete for her attention to vinification and her ability to create a distinct identity for a winery that previously lacked one.
While her approach is marked by focus and precision, rather than flair, Poblete’s work is increasingly seen as exemplary by her peers, cementing her place among the next generation of influential winemakers in Chile.
Shifting Values in Chile’s Wine Landscape
The 2025 edition of Los Más Influyentes del Vino offers insight into the values shaping the future of Chilean winemaking. There is a clear turn toward terroir-driven practices, personal vision, and a deeper commitment to sustainability. At the heart of this movement is Faulconer, whose poised leadership is expected to symbolize the next decade of Chile’s winemaking evolution.
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