Cape Town Viticulture Leader — Horticulture & Vineyard

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid and retirement fund

Generous leave

International travel

Professional development

Subsidized accommodation

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town, Western Cape, seeks a Lead Horticulturalist (Viticulture) to oversee grape production from planting to harvest, ensuring premium quality for world-class wines. This hands-on leadership role requires deep viticulture knowledge and a proven track record.

You will lead vineyard teams, implement advanced viticultural methods, manage budgets, and collaborate with winemakers. A Master’s degree and 10+ years in viticulture with leadership experience are required, with

Qualifications

• Master's degree or equivalent in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or closely related field.
• 10+ years hands-on viticulture experience, with 5+ years in leadership.
• Deep understanding of grape physiology and quality factors.
• Proven track record in premium wine production.
• Knowledge of South African wine regions and climate variations.
• Experience with irrigation, soil management, IPM.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans for premium grape quality.
• Oversee planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, fertilization, and pest/disease control.
• Lead vineyard staff with focus on safety, performance and best practices.
• Conduct regular vineyard assessments for vine health, development and risks.
• Select grape varietals and rootstocks for sites and market demands.
• Implement advanced viticultural techniques and water management strategies.
• Manage vineyard budgets, resources and inventory.
• Collaborate with winemakers to meet quality specs and styles.
• Maintain detailed records of activities, yield and quality.

Skills

Leadership

Viticulture expertise

Team management

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Viticulture/Horticulture

Tools

Irrigation systems management

Soil management

Job description

Placements24 in Cape Town, Western Cape, seeks a Lead Horticulturalist (Viticulture) to oversee grape production from planting to harvest, ensuring premium quality for world-class wines. This hands-on leadership role requires deep viticulture knowledge and a proven track record.

You will lead vineyard teams, implement advanced viticultural methods, manage budgets, and collaborate with winemakers. A Master’s degree and 10+ years in viticulture with leadership experience are required, with