Having built a successful architectural career, Ondine de la Feld faced an unexpected transition when her uncle asked her to take over Tenuta di Tavignano, a respected winery in Italy’s Marche region, after the passing of his wife. Initially hesitant, she finally agreed in 2014, driven by her husband’s appreciation for land and tradition.
Ondine’s journey in the wine industry began with a steep learning curve. Unfamiliar with the complexities of winemaking, she encountered numerous challenges, including resistance from employees who had taken more control in her uncle’s absence. By 2017, this resistance culminated in doubts about her capabilities, leading her uncle to reconsider his decision. With the backing of her family and after navigating through conflicts and employee sabotage, Ondine eventually asserted her leadership.
By 2021, she regained full control of the winery, which provided her a fresh start but came with considerable bureaucratic tangles and unresolved issues left by her uncle. She prioritized rebuilding the team and embracing a collaborative management style, favoring younger, innovative approaches while respecting the expertise of her seasoned winemaker.
Noticing that her identity as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry may have affected her reception, Ondine focused on her role as a producer rather than a female producer. She cultivated resilience, which she considers both a strength and a flaw, as it sometimes dampened her reactions to challenges.
Ondine’s architectural training informs her vision for the winery, where she blends history, culture, and modernity. She champions organic viticulture and renewable energy, pushing the estate towards a contemporary image while paying homage to its historical roots. Her aspirations include a potential collaboration with architects to develop the winery and a desire for the brand to gain recognition, aspiring to bridge tradition with innovation.
Through her complex journey of transition, Ondine aims not just to succeed in winemaking, but to reshape the future of Tenuta di Tavignano, merging her diverse background and insights to craft a legacy that honors both its past and its potential.