Oenologist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Staff discounts on wine

Travel opportunities for R&D

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly skilled Oenologist to lead winemaking operations in the Western Cape, overseeing the entire process from grape reception to bottling. You will apply scientific knowledge to craft wines reflecting the terroir while pursuing innovation and consistency.

The role requires meticulous attention to detail, fermentation science expertise, and a passion for world-class wine production. Competitive salary, bonuses, and travel opportunities are offered.

Qualifications

• Degree in Oenology, Viticulture, Food Science or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience as an Oenologist or Assistant Winemaker.
• Deep knowledge of fermentation science, yeast management, and malolactic fermentation.
• Experience with oak aging and blending in wine maturation.
• Proficiency in wine analysis techniques and laboratory operations.
• Strong sensory evaluation and refined palate.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the winemaking process (fermentation, aging, blending, bottling).
• Conduct regular analysis of must and wine samples to monitor fermentation progress and quality.
• Manage grape reception, pressing, and juice settling during harvest.
• Develop and implement cellar hygiene protocols for a clean winemaking environment.
• Collaborate with viticulture team to ensure grape quality for winemaking.
• Innovate and experiment with new techniques to enhance wine complexity.
• Maintain comprehensive records of winemaking activities and analytical results.

Skills

Fermentation science

Yeast management

Sensory evaluation

Laboratory techniques

Wine analysis

Education

Degree in Oenology or related field

Tools

Wine analysis instruments

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Oenologist to lead winemaking operations at their esteemed winery in Paarl . This critical role involves managing the entire winemaking process, from grape reception to bottling, ensuring the production of exceptional quality wines. You will apply scientific knowledge and practical expertise to create wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Western Cape region while striving for innovation and consistency. This position requires meticulous attention to detail, a deep understanding of fermentation science, and a passion for crafting world-class wines.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the winemaking process, including fermentation, aging, blending, and bottling.
• Conduct regular analysis of must and wine samples to monitor fermentation progress and wine quality.
• Manage grape reception, pressing, and juice settling operations during harvest.
• Develop and implement cellar hygiene protocols to ensure a clean and sanitary winemaking environment.
• Collaborate with the viticulture team to ensure optimal grape quality for winemaking.
• Innovate and experiment with new techniques to enhance wine complexity and character.
• Maintain comprehensive records of all winemaking activities, materials, and analytical results.

Requirements

• A degree in Oenology, Viticulture, Food Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as an Oenologist or Assistant Winemaker.
• In-depth knowledge of fermentation science, yeast management, and malolactic fermentation.
• Experience with various wine maturation techniques, including oak aging and blending.
• Proficiency in wine analysis techniques and laboratory operations.
• Strong sensory evaluation skills and a sophisticated palate.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Generous wine allocation and staff discounts.
• Opportunities to travel to wine regions internationally for research and development.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plan.
• Be part of a renowned winery with a commitment to excellence and innovation in winemaking.