Master Winemaker & Oenologist | Lead Cellar & Blending

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing provided

Medical aid and retirement fund

Wine allowance

Annual leave

International travel opportunities

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Staff discounts on wine

Cutting-edge winemaking tech

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch invites an experienced Oenologist/Winemaker to lead our winemaking operations. You will oversee harvest, fermentation, maturation, blending and bottling, working hands-on in cellar and vineyard with viticulturists and cellar staff.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s degree in Oenology or related field, 8+ years of progressive winemaking experience, strong sensory skills, and a track record of producing top-quality wines.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Oenology, Winemaking, or Food Science with wine specialization.
• 8+ years of progressive winemaking experience producing high-quality wines.
• In-depth knowledge of fermentation science, yeast management, and malolactic fermentation.
• Proficiency with wine analysis techniques and instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of the winemaking process from harvest to bottling.
• Oversee fermentation, including yeast selection, temperature control, and nutrient management.
• Conduct regular tasting and analysis of wines during maturation and blending.
• Develop and implement blending strategies to achieve desired wine styles and quality.
• Monitor and manage wine stability, clarity, and microbial integrity.
• Perform laboratory analysis to track fermentation progress and wine composition.
• Work closely with the Viticulturist to ensure optimal grape quality at harvest.
• Manage cellar operations, including equipment cleaning, sanitation, and maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety, quality control, and legislative requirements.
• Supervise cellar staff, providing training and guidance.

Skills

Fermentation science

Yeast management

Sensory evaluation

Wine analysis

Education

Master's degree in Oenology/Winemaking/Food Science

Tools

Wine analysis instruments

Job description

Placements24 in Stellenbosch invites an experienced Oenologist/Winemaker to lead our winemaking operations. You will oversee harvest, fermentation, maturation, blending and bottling, working hands-on in cellar and vineyard with viticulturists and cellar staff.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s degree in Oenology or related field, 8+ years of progressive winemaking experience, strong sensory skills, and a track record of producing top-quality wines.