Head Winemaker

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Presencial; ZAR 1.200.000 - 2.000.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Housing or relocation support

International travel opportunities

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking an exceptional Head Winemaker to lead winemaking operations in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The role requires mastery of viticulture and oenology, with a track record of award-winning wines and strategic leadership of the cellar team.

You will oversee all production stages, implement high-quality winemaking strategies, manage budgets, and collaborate with viticulture to enhance grape quality. A relevant advanced degree and 10+ years of experience are expected.

Formación

• Advanced degree in enology/viticulture or related field.
• Minimum 10 years progressive winemaking experience.
• Proven leadership of cellar teams and budget oversight.

Responsabilidades

• Oversee all winemaking stages from grape reception to bottling.
• Develop strategies to produce high-quality, brand-aligned wines.
• Lead cellar team with training and performance management.
• Analyze grapes, must, and wine through production cycles.
• Source top-quality grapes and manage grower relationships.
• Control inventory of bulk wine, finished goods, and inputs.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regs.
• Maintain winery equipment and facilities.
• Stay current with winemaking research and trends.
• Collaborate with viticulture to optimize grape quality.
• Manage winemaking budget and allocate resources efficiently.

Conocimientos

Leadership

Winemaking

Fermentation

Budget management

Quality control

Laboratory techniques

Team management

Educación

Advanced degree in Oenology/Viticulture/related field

Herramientas

Laboratory equipment

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a highly acclaimed winery in the heart of the Cape Winelands, is seeking an exceptional and experienced Head Winemaker to lead their winemaking operations in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This prestigious role demands a masterful blend of scientific precision, artistic intuition, and deep knowledge of viticulture and oenology. You will be responsible for the entire winemaking process, from grape reception through to bottling, ensuring the production of world-class wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of producing award-winning wines, exceptional leadership skills to manage the cellar team, and a profound understanding of both traditional and innovative winemaking techniques. This is an opportunity to shape the identity of a renowned wine brand and contribute to its continued legacy of excellence. We are looking for a visionary individual with a meticulous attention to detail, a passion for quality, and a commitment to innovation in the pursuit of oenological perfection. Your expertise will be vital in maintaining and enhancing the winery's reputation for producing outstanding wines.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the winemaking process, from grape sourcing and fermentation to aging, blending, and bottling.
• Develop and implement winemaking strategies to produce high-quality wines that align with the winery's brand and market position.
• Manage the cellar team, providing leadership, training, and performance management.
• Conduct rigorous analysis of grapes, must, and wine throughout the production cycle.
• Source high-quality grapes, establishing strong relationships with growers.
• Manage the winery's inventory, including bulk wine, finished goods, and raw materials.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Oversee the maintenance and operation of winery equipment and facilities.
• Stay abreast of the latest trends, research, and technologies in winemaking and viticulture.
• Collaborate with the viticulture team to ensure optimal grape quality and vineyard management practices.
• Manage the winemaking budget effectively, controlling costs and optimizing resource allocation.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in Oenology, Viticulture, Food Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive winemaking experience, with at least 5 years in a Head Winemaker or Senior Winemaker role.
• Demonstrated success in producing award-winning wines across various varietals.
• In-depth knowledge of fermentation, yeast management, oak aging, and blending techniques.
• Strong understanding of viticultural practices and their impact on wine quality.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in wine analysis, laboratory techniques, and quality control.
• Experience in budget management and financial planning for a winery.
• Familiarity with international wine markets and regulations.
• A passion for wine, a creative palate, and a commitment to excellence.

Benefits

• Highly attractive salary package and performance-based bonuses.
• Access to a cellar of exceptional wines and winemaking resources.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• Company housing or assistance with relocation to the beautiful Stellenbosch, Western Cape region.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• The chance to lead the winemaking vision for a globally recognized winery.
• Be part of a respected institution within the South African wine industry.