Farm & Cellar Manager: Viticulture & Winemaking

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Accommodation

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Manager for a distinguished wine estate in Paarl, Western Cape. You will oversee both extensive vineyards and the state-of-the-art cellar, driving grape quality, winemaking processes, and operational excellence.

You will lead vineyard and cellar teams, manage budgets, ensure stringent quality controls, and collaborate with marketing on wine styles and production volumes. A proven leadership track record in viticulture and enology is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Agriculture, or related field.
• Advanced winemaking certifications desirable.
• 8+ years experience in vineyard and cellar operations.
• In-depth knowledge of Paarl region grape varietals and modern winemaking.
• Strong leadership and financial acumen.
• Proficiency with vineyard and cellar management software.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategic plans for vineyard management to optimize grape quality and yield.
• Oversee viticultural practices including pruning, canopy management, pests, irrigation, and harvesting.
• Manage the winemaking process from grape reception to bottling.
• Ensure adherence to quality control across vineyard and cellar operations.
• Manage cellar staff, providing training, supervision and safety oversight.
• Oversee vineyard staff to ensure efficient execution of farming tasks.
• Manage cellar equipment maintenance and hygiene protocols.
• Develop and manage budgets for vineyard and cellar operations.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, grape analysis, fermentation data, and wine stock.
• Collaborate with marketing and sales teams regarding wine styles, production volumes, and quality expectations.

Skills

Viticulture

Oenology

Leadership

Team management

Budget management

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Degree in Viticulture

Degree in Enology

Agriculture degree

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Manager for a distinguished wine estate in Paarl, Western Cape. You will oversee both extensive vineyards and the state-of-the-art cellar, driving grape quality, winemaking processes, and operational excellence.

You will lead vineyard and cellar teams, manage budgets, ensure stringent quality controls, and collaborate with marketing on wine styles and production volumes. A proven leadership track record in viticulture and enology is essential.