Lead Viticulturist for Premium Wine Estate Operations

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private health insurance

Performance bonus

Accommodation on estate

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Viticulturist for a renowned wine estate in Cape Town, Western Cape. You will oversee all vineyard operations, develop long-term strategies, and align viticulture with premium wine goals.

The ideal candidate holds BSc/MSc in Viticulture or related field, with 10+ years of hands-on viticulture experience and at least 3 years in leadership. You will mentor staff, manage budgets, and champion sustainable farming.

Qualifications

• BSc or MSc in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or related field.
• 10+ years of hands-on viticulture, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Experience managing premium wine grape production with Cape Town terroir knowledge.
• Strong understanding of sustainable and biodynamic farming principles.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a team.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute long-term viticultural strategies to maximize grape quality and vineyard health for various varietals.
• Manage all vineyard operations including planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, and pest/disease control.
• Supervise and mentor a team of vineyard workers, ensuring efficient workflow and high standards.
• Conduct regular vineyard assessments, soil analysis, and weather monitoring to inform decisions.
• Implement and champion sustainable and organic farming practices.
• Collaborate with head winemaker to achieve target ripeness and flavor profiles.
• Manage budgets, resource allocation, and inventory.

Skills

Viticulture

Leadership

Terroir knowledge

Data analysis

Team mentorship

Education

BSc or MSc in Viticulture/Horticulture/Plant Science

Tools

Vineyard management software

Precision agriculture tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine estate situated in the picturesque **Cape Town, Western Cape**, is seeking an accomplished Lead Viticulturist to oversee all vineyard operations. This prestigious position is central to maintaining and enhancing the estate's reputation for producing world-class wines. The successful candidate will be responsible for the strategic planning, cultivation, and management of our premium grape varietals, ensuring optimal quality and yield. This role requires a visionary leader with a profound understanding of viticultural science, terroir, and sustainable vineyard practices specific to the unique climate of the **Cape Town, Western Cape** region. You will work closely with our winemaking team to align vineyard practices with the desired wine profiles, driving innovation and excellence from vine to bottle. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a dedicated vineyard team and contribute to the legacy of a distinguished winery.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute long-term viticultural strategies to maximize grape quality and vineyard health for various varietals.
• Manage all aspects of vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, and pest/disease control.
• Supervise and mentor a team of vineyard workers, ensuring efficient workflow and high standards of practice.
• Conduct regular vineyard assessments, soil analysis, and weather monitoring to inform management decisions in **Cape Town, Western Cape**.
• Implement and champion sustainable and organic farming practices within the vineyards.
• Collaborate with the head winemaker to achieve specific grape ripeness levels and flavor profiles required for premium wine production.
• Manage vineyard budgets, resource allocation, and inventory.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in viticultural research and technology.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• BSc or MSc in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience in viticulture, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing vineyards producing premium wine grapes, with specific knowledge of **Cape Town, Western Cape** terroir.
• Strong understanding of sustainable and biodynamic farming principles.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a team.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in vineyard management software and precision agriculture tools.
• Exceptional communication and reporting skills.
• Valid driver's license required.

Benefits

This position offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including private health insurance, a performance-based bonus structure, and subsidized accommodation on or near the estate. You will have access to advanced viticultural resources and professional development opportunities. Join a passionate team dedicated to producing exceptional wines in one of the world's most beautiful settings.