Neža Skrt would never in a billion years have guessed that she would once work as a winemaker. But life had plans for her. She studied food science and technology in her home country of Slovenia, where viticulture and winemaking caught her attention. This interest multiplied while she was pursuing her master's at The Polytechnic University of Valencia. Once she returned to Slovenia, she started working in the wine industry, first in a wine shop, participating in wine tastings and wine fairs, and then as a winemaker in a winery in Goriska Brda, Slovenia.
Since she lacked a family background in winemaking, she felt the need to accelerate her learning, so she decided to complete two harvests per year - from New Zealand to Chile and beyond. When the pandemic hit in 2020, she was in Argentina. At first, she returned home to Slovenia, but then she decided to return to Spain in the summer. Initially, she worked as an assistant winemaker and wine consultant. After four years of living there, she now works as a technical director and head winemaker at Aiurri Winery in La Rioja.
As a Slovenian working in Spain, she often gets asked how she ended up there, and she always answers the same way - faith, love and listening to her inner voice. She became a winemaker because she found her passion and moved to Spain because the decision felt right. Being in love with a Spanish guy helped a little bit, too :)
What is it about your work that you love the most and that inspires you?
When you find your passion, there is almost everything that inspires you. Seeing the vineyards before the harvest and tasting the grapes, thinking how to process them, is an amazing moment. Tasting the wines with others and witnessing their reactions is also very fulfilling. Moreover, as the leader of the team, one of the best feelings is seeing people happy and engaged.
If you look at your life and how you have evolved over the last ten years, how would you say you have changed?
My biggest changes have occurred in the past few years. I started to learn how to find my balance in life with so many different roles I play. I've made progress in managing my impostor syndrome (though I'm still working on it). I've started to listen more, be more open-minded, and refrain from giving my opinion when nobody asks for it. Besides all that, I feel that I am starting to control my emotions and first reactions better.
What was the best personal and professional advice you have received?
There have been many occasions when I listened to different people, and my inner reaction was, "Woooo, that's amazing". But I can't think of any advice that was specifically for me, and that was truly memorable. There is something our CEO often says, and I think it's very powerful: "Whoever does not strive to be better every day will soon cease to be good." Another thought that I have started to understand lately came from another winemaker who told me that the importance of things diminishes over time.
Who or what has been your biggest inspiration and influence?
Many people have influenced me because I'm like a sponge; I enjoy listening to and understanding others' perspectives. Many individuals have influenced me, but if I had to choose one person currently, it would be our CEO. He possesses excellent clarity and calmness and can always envision the future. He didn't just open doors for me career-wise, but since he is a psychologist by profession, he has also significantly influenced my personal growth lately.
Where or what is your happy place?
My happy place is being with "my people" and feeling the warmth and connection around me. It's when I know I'm truly happy. I find peace when I connect with myself in stillness and slowness. This is probably why I love mornings and nature so much. Enjoying a morning coffee when nobody else is awake and appreciating the beauty of nature, the sound of the water and the warmth of the sunset brings me calm. I think this has changed because, ten years ago, I didn't feel the need to be alone or slow down. Now, in this hectic life filled with responsibilities, when I constantly have to make decisions, it's essential for me to take a breath and have my own time and space.
Do you have any rituals to stay in the flow and maintain balance in life?
My mornings are filled with silence, sipping a cup of coffee on the terrace or couch with a book in hand. I always wake up a bit earlier to enjoy this quiet time. I create my weekly schedule on Sunday evenings, which helps me prepare for the week ahead. In December, I reflect on my life over the past year and write down what I would like to achieve in the coming year. It's the only time of the year when I review my goals from the past year, reflect and then think about the year ahead.
How do you take care of your body, mind and soul?
I listen to myself and give myself what I need. If I need a slow day, I will allow myself that without any guilt. I prioritise my nutrition, physical activity, and sleep. I spend time with people who help me recharge my energy. I make sure to slow down before bed and never forget to express gratitude.
How do you take care of your skin?
I'm quite good at my morning and evening face skincare routine, but when it comes to other parts of the body, other than suncream, not that much. I make sure I hydrate myself enough, eat well, and exercise often.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Wine and food. I could spend hours just tasting wines and discussing everything behind them. If shared with friends, it is even better!
What advice would you give yourself at the age of 20?
Open your mind and listen to your inner voice; the correct answer is always within you.
Is there any book you love and recommend people to read?
I have read many books lately, all about psychology. I learned something from each of them, but I really like "Samurai el que lidera sirviendo" by Enric Llado. I'm unsure if it's because of the person who gave it to me or because of the powerful messages in the book.
Can you share one piece of wisdom with our community, that will encourage women reading this to find strength and inspiration?
As cliché as it sounds, I truly believe that time puts everything in order. Sometimes, you just have to let go, do your thing, and wait for everything to fall back into place.
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