Junior Winemaker Apprentice

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-the-job training

Mentorship access

Hands-on winemaking

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 invites candidates to join a renowned Stellenbosch winery as a Junior Winemaker Apprentice. You will learn winemaking from grape to bottle, gaining hands-on experience in vineyard management, grape harvesting, fermentation, blending and bottling under expert guidance.

You will work seasonally, performing cellar and vineyard duties, with mentorship from award-winning winemakers. The program emphasizes practical skill-building and attention to quality wine production.

Qualifications

• Genuine passion for wine and winemaking.
• Willingness to perform physical labor in vineyard and cellar.
• Meticulous attention to detail and ability to follow instructions precisely.
• Good organizational skills and ability to maintain accurate records.
• Must be physically fit and able to work long hours during peak seasons.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to the Stellenbosch, Western Cape region.
• A relevant qualification in Viticulture, Oenology, or Agriculture is advantageous.
• Basic understanding of wine production principles is a plus.
• Flexibility to work seasonally, including weekends and holidays during harvest.

Responsibilities

• Assist in vineyard operations, including pruning, canopy management, and harvesting.
• Participate in grape reception, crushing, and destemming processes.
• Monitor fermentation progress, including temperature control and yeast activity.
• Perform regular tastings and analysis of must and wine.
• Assist in racking, filtering, and blending operations.
• Learn and implement sanitation protocols for cellar equipment.
• Support the bottling process, including preparing bottles and operating bottling lines.
• Maintain accurate records of vineyard and cellar activities.
• Assist with laboratory analysis of wine samples.
• Contribute to maintaining a clean and organized winery environment.

Skills

Wine appreciation

Attention to detail

Physical stamina

Teamwork

Organizational skills

Willingness to learn

Education

Viticulture/Oenology/Agriculture qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned vineyard and winery situated in the picturesque **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**, is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated **Junior Winemaker Apprentice**. This is a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about viticulture and oenology to learn the craft of winemaking from grape to bottle. You will gain hands-on experience in vineyard management, grape harvesting, fermentation processes, blending, and bottling, all under the expert guidance of experienced winemakers. The role involves working seasonally and requires active participation in all aspects of the winemaking process, including hands-on labor in the cellar and vineyards. Our client is committed to sharing their knowledge and fostering the next generation of winemakers. We are looking for candidates with a strong work ethic, meticulous attention to detail, and a genuine appreciation for quality wine. This is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in one of South Africa's most celebrated industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in vineyard operations, including pruning, canopy management, and harvesting.
• Participate in grape reception, crushing, and destemming processes.
• Monitor fermentation progress, including temperature control and yeast activity.
• Perform regular tastings and analysis of must and wine.
• Assist in racking, filtering, and blending operations.
• Learn and implement sanitation protocols for cellar equipment.
• Support the bottling process, including preparing bottles and operating bottling lines.
• Maintain accurate records of vineyard and cellar activities.
• Assist with laboratory analysis of wine samples.
• Contribute to maintaining a clean and organized winery environment.

Requirements

• A genuine passion for wine and winemaking.
• A strong work ethic and willingness to perform physical labor in vineyard and cellar settings.
• Meticulous attention to detail and ability to follow instructions precisely.
• Good organizational skills and ability to maintain accurate records.
• Must be physically fit and able to work long hours during peak seasons.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to the **Stellenbosch, Western Cape** region.
• A relevant qualification in Viticulture, Oenology, or Agriculture is advantageous.
• Basic understanding of wine production principles is a plus.
• Flexibility to work seasonally, including weekends and holidays during harvest.

Benefits

• Comprehensive on-the-job training in all facets of winemaking.
• Mentorship from award-winning winemakers and viticulturists.
• Hands-on experience with traditional and modern winemaking techniques.
• Opportunity to work with premium grape varietals.
• Immersion in the rich culture and history of the **Stellenbosch** wine region.
• Competitive seasonal remuneration.
• Potential for full-time employment and career progression within the winery.
• Exposure to the entire wine production cycle.
• Develop specialized skills in a globally recognized industry.
• Contribute to the creation of acclaimed wines.