Cellar Master Assistant — Learn Winemaking in Paarl

Placements24; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Learn from experienced winemakers

Exposure to diverse techniques

Employee discounts on wine

Collaborative work environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, South Africa, seeks a dedicated Cellar Master Assistant to support the winemaking team with grape reception, fermentation management, bottling, and quality control. You will work alongside a seasoned Cellar Master to help produce award-winning wines.

The role requires a Viticulture & Oenology degree, winery cellar experience, lab analysis skills, and the stamina for long harvest hours. A hands-on, collaborative cellar environment awaits.

Qualifications

• Degree or Diploma in Viticulture and Oenology, or a related scientific field.
• Previous winery cellar experience, ideally during harvest season.
• Basic understanding of wine chemistry and fermentation processes.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques for wine analysis.
• Willingness to work extended hours during peak seasons (harvest and bottling).

Responsibilities

• Assist the Cellar Master in winemaking operations, including grape crushing, fermentation monitoring, and juice/wine transfers.
• Conduct regular analysis of must and wine samples, maintaining accurate records.
• Operate and maintain winemaking equipment, ensuring it is clean and in good working order.
• Assist with blending trials, barrel management, and preparing wines for bottling.
• Monitor fermentation progress, temperatures, and yeast health, reporting deviations.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and hygiene standards in the cellar.

Skills

Attention to detail

Physical stamina

Lab techniques

Teamwork

Harvest readiness

Education

Viticulture & Oenology degree

Tools

Winery equipment

Job description

Placements24 in Paarl, South Africa, seeks a dedicated Cellar Master Assistant to support the winemaking team with grape reception, fermentation management, bottling, and quality control. You will work alongside a seasoned Cellar Master to help produce award-winning wines.

The role requires a Viticulture & Oenology degree, winery cellar experience, lab analysis skills, and the stamina for long harvest hours. A hands-on, collaborative cellar environment awaits.