Lead Viticulturist: Elevate Premium Wines, Sustainability

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation

Provision allowance

Health benefits

Retirement benefits

Wine purchase discounts

Professional development

Access to winemaking facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape, invites an accomplished Lead Viticulturist to lead vineyard operations from budburst to harvest, manage a skilled team, and shape long-term vineyard development for a premium estate.

The ideal candidate holds a master's degree in viticulture or related field, at least eight years of commercial experience, deep terroir knowledge, and proven ability to drive quality, sustainability, and innovation in winemaking.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Agronomy, or related agricultural science.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of vineyard management and planning.
• Lead, train, and mentor vineyard workers and assistants.
• Coordinate with winemaker to meet quality targets and styles.
• Conduct soil analyses, weather monitoring, and health assessments.
• Develop strategic vineyard management plans for quality and sustainability.
• Manage budgets, resources, and safety protocols.
• Drive adoption of innovative viticultural techniques.

Skills

Team leadership

IPM principles

Data analysis

Communication

Soil science

Terroir knowledge

Precision agriculture

Equipment safety

Decision making

Outdoor work

Education

Master's degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Agronomy, or related agricultural science

Tools

Vineyard management software

GIS / mapping

Weather monitoring tools

Job description

Placements24 in George, Western Cape, invites an accomplished Lead Viticulturist to lead vineyard operations from budburst to harvest, manage a skilled team, and shape long-term vineyard development for a premium estate.

The ideal candidate holds a master's degree in viticulture or related field, at least eight years of commercial experience, deep terroir knowledge, and proven ability to drive quality, sustainability, and innovation in winemaking.