Cellar Master / Wine Production Manager

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private health insurance

Retirement annuity

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 presents an exceptional opportunity for a senior Cellar Master/Wine Production Manager at a premier winery in the Paarl region, Western Cape. The role oversees all production stages from grape reception to bottling, ensuring consistently award-winning wines.

The ideal candidate will bring a Master’s degree in oenology or related field, at least 7 years of cellar management experience, and a proven track record in quality, leadership, and innovation within a wine estate environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Oenology, Food Science, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive cellar management and wine production experience.
• Strong knowledge of modern winemaking techniques and fermentation science.
• Understanding of viticulture and its impact on wine quality.
• Proven leadership and team management abilities.
• Proficiency in cellar management software and data analysis.
• Ability to manage budgets and resources effectively.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all cellar operations: fermentation, maturation, blending, bottling.
• Lead and develop the cellar team for high performance.
• Develop and implement production strategies to meet quality targets.
• Monitor key winemaking parameters and ensure product stability.
• Maintain strict quality control across production cycles.
• Manage inventory of wines, raw materials and supplies.
• Coordinate maintenance of cellar equipment and comply with safety regulations.
• Collaborate with Vineyard Manager to optimize grape quality.
• Drive innovations and continuous improvement in winemaking techniques.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Data analysis

Budget management

Fermentation science

Education

Master's degree in Oenology or related field

Tools

Cellar management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly acclaimed winery situated in the heart of the winelands, Paarl, Western Cape , is seeking an experienced and visionary Cellar Master/Wine Production Manager. This senior role is responsible for all aspects of wine production, from grape reception through to bottling and maturation, ensuring the consistent creation of award-winning wines. You will lead a dedicated cellar team, manage cellar operations, oversee quality control, and contribute significantly to the winery's reputation for excellence. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of enology and viticulture, exceptional leadership skills, and a passion for crafting superior wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Western Cape . This is a pivotal position within a leading wine estate.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all cellar operations, including fermentation, maturation, blending, and bottling.
• Manage and lead the cellar team, ensuring efficient workflow and high performance.
• Develop and implement wine production strategies to achieve desired quality and style profiles.
• Monitor and control key parameters during winemaking processes (e.g., temperature, yeast activity, SO2 levels).
• Ensure adherence to strict quality control measures throughout the production cycle.
• Manage inventory of wines, raw materials, and cellar supplies.
• Maintain and operate cellar equipment, coordinating maintenance and repairs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with the Vineyard Manager to ensure optimal grape quality.
• Contribute to innovation and continuous improvement in winemaking techniques.

Requirements

• Master's degree or equivalent qualification in Oenology, Food Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in cellar management and wine production, with a proven track record of producing high-quality wines.
• In-depth knowledge of modern winemaking techniques, fermentation science, and wine stability.
• Strong understanding of viticultural practices and their impact on wine quality.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in cellar management software and data analysis.
• Ability to manage budgets and resources effectively.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be physically capable of working in a cellar environment in Paarl, Western Cape.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills under pressure.
• A passion for wine and a dedication to excellence.

Benefits

• This position offers a highly competitive salary, generous bonus structure tied to performance, and comprehensive benefits including private health insurance and a retirement annuity.
• You will have the opportunity to work with exceptional fruit from renowned vineyards and utilize advanced winemaking technology.
• Significant professional development opportunities and the chance to contribute to the prestige of a leading wine brand in the iconic Western Cape are integral to this role.