Winemaker and farm manager - Paarl

eXtraordinary Talent Solutions; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 30 000 - 60 000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity awaits at a boutique winery in Paarl for a dynamic Winemaker & Farm Manager. This role combines creativity with leadership, overseeing both vineyard and cellar operations. You will manage day-to-day farm activities, drive rebranding efforts, and ensure quality wine production. If you are passionate about wine and sustainability, and ready to leave your mark on a small but ambitious estate, this is the perfect role for you. Join a team dedicated to creating exceptional customer experiences and making a significant impact in the wine industry.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in winemaking and vineyard management.
• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of wine production from grape to bottle.
• Manage vineyard operations and drive strategic rebranding.

Skills

Winemaking

Vineyard Management

Negotiation Skills

Commercial Acumen

Communication Skills

Education

Formal Qualification in Winemaking

Job description

Job Advertisement: Winemaker & Farm Manager - Boutique Winery, Paarl

Location: Paarl, Western Cape

Employment Type: Full-Time

Start Date: As soon as possible

A unique and exciting opportunity has opened up at a boutique wine estate in the heart of Paarl. We are searching for a young, dynamic Winemaker & Farm Manager with a business mindset to lead the next chapter of our farm's story. With just 7 hectares under vine, this is a hands-on role that blends creativity, leadership, and strategic thinking. An immediate start would be preferable.

About The Role

This is not just a winemaking position. You will be at the helm of both vineyard and cellar operations, overseeing day-to-day farm management, and driving the rebranding and repositioning of our winery. You'll need to be just as comfortable in gumboots as you are at a boardroom table.

Key Responsibilities

1. Oversee all aspects of wine production - from grape to bottle.
2. Manage vineyard operations, including growing, planting, and maintenance of vines across our 7 hectares.
3. Plan and execute harvest schedules and ensure quality from soil to cellar.
4. Be a shrewd negotiator to source and buy in quality wine for blending purposes.
5. Drive the strategic rebranding of the farm and product line.
6. Oversee a small tasting room open seven days a week.
7. Manage a small on-site restaurant, currently operating Wednesday to Sunday for lunch, with plans to expand to full-service lunch and dinner during the season.
8. Work closely with ownership on business development, marketing, and brand positioning.

Requirements

1. A formal qualification in winemaking is essential.
2. 3-5 years experience in both winemaking and farm/vineyard management.
3. Proven experience in vineyard development, including planting and cultivation.
4. Strong commercial acumen with an entrepreneurial approach.
5. A people person with excellent communication and negotiation skills.
6. Experience working in a hospitality environment is a plus.
7. Comfortable working in a dynamic, evolving environment with big ambitions.
8. Passionate about wine, sustainability, and creating exceptional customer experiences.

Why Join Us?

You'll play a pivotal role in reshaping the identity of a hidden gem in Paarl. This is a rare opportunity to leave a personal mark on a small but ambitious estate with big plans for growth and exposure in both the local and international markets.