Apprentice Winemaker/Viticulturist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 65,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Apprenticeship program

Mentorship from industry professionals

Competitive salary

Immersive Stellenbosch experience

Premium varietals experience

Career growth potential

Lifestyle in Stellenbosch

Business insights

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, invites enthusiastic individuals to join as Apprentice Winemakers/Viticulturists, gaining hands-on experience from grape cultivation to bottling under mentorship from award-winning winemakers and vineyard managers.

This full-time apprenticeship offers practical learning in both vineyard and cellar operations, accompanied by a competitive salary of R72,000 per year and opportunities to grow within one of the world’s leading wine regions.

Qualifications

• Relevant qualification in Agriculture or Oenology or related field; Diploma/degree highly advantageous.
• Matriculation certificate or equivalent is required.
• Willingness to work long hours, especially during harvest.
• Must be able to work full-time on the Stellenbosch wine estate.
• Legally eligible to undertake an apprenticeship in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Assist in vineyard management tasks (pruning, canopy management, pest control).
• Participate in grape harvesting, sorting, and analysis.
• Support cellar operations (crushing, fermentation, racking, blending).
• Learn winemaking techniques and treatments.
• Monitor fermentation progress and conduct laboratory analyses.
• Assist with bottling, corking, labeling processes.
• Maintain hygiene and cleanliness in cellar and vineyards.
• Record notes on vineyard practices and winemaking processes.
• Operate vineyard and cellar equipment safely.
• Engage in continuous learning about viticulture and winemaking in Stellenbosch.

Skills

Passion for wine

Observational skills

Communication and teamwork

Chemistry & biology basics

Outdoor fitness

Education

Diploma or degree in Agriculture/Oenology or related field

Matriculation certificate

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious wine estate nestled in the scenic vineyards of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , is seeking enthusiastic and passionate individuals to join their team as Apprentice Winemakers/Viticulturists. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the art and science of winemaking, from grape cultivation to the final bottled product. You will work under the guidance of award-winning winemakers and vineyard managers, gaining practical experience in both cellar operations and vineyard management. The role involves hands‑on work through all seasons, contributing to the production of high‑quality wines that are celebrated internationally. This position requires dedication, a keen palate, and a strong desire to learn the intricacies of viticulture and oenology within the renowned Stellenbosch, Western Cape wine region.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in all aspects of vineyard management, including pruning, canopy management, and pest control.
• Participate in grape harvesting, sorting, and analysis.
• Support cellar operations, including crushing, fermentation, racking, and blending.
• Learn and practice various winemaking techniques and treatments.
• Monitor fermentation progress and conduct regular laboratory analysis.
• Assist with bottling, corking, and labeling processes.
• Maintain hygiene and cleanliness standards throughout the cellar and vineyards.
• Record detailed notes on vineyard practices and winemaking processes.
• Operate and maintain vineyard and cellar equipment safely.
• Engage in continuous learning about viticulture and winemaking, particularly in the Stellenbosch, Western Cape context.
• Assist with wine tasting and evaluation.

Requirements

• A genuine passion for wine, viticulture, and winemaking.
• A relevant tertiary qualification (e.g., Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Oenology, or related field) is highly advantageous.
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail.
• Physical fitness and ability to perform outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
• Willingness to work long hours, especially during harvest season.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Basic understanding of chemistry and biology is beneficial.
• Must possess a matriculation certificate or equivalent.
• Must be able to work full‑time on the wine estate in Stellenbosch, Western Cape .
• Must be legally eligible to undertake an apprenticeship in South Africa .

Benefits

• Comprehensive apprenticeship program in winemaking and viticulture.
• Mentorship from highly respected professionals in the wine industry.
• Competitive apprentice salary: R72000 per annum.
• Immersive experience in one of the world's leading wine-producing regions.
• Opportunity to work with premium grape varietals and produce acclaimed wines.
• Potential for career growth within the wine estate.
• A unique and rewarding lifestyle work environment in Stellenbosch, Western Cape .
• Opportunity to learn about the business aspects of the wine industry.