Oenologist & Quality Control Specialist

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Staff wine allocations and discounts

Professional development and training

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Oenologist & Quality Control Specialist for a distinguished winery in Paarl, Western Cape. You will oversee fermentation, maturation, and comprehensive quality testing, working closely with vineyard and cellar teams to uphold top wine standards.

The ideal candidate holds a degree in oenology or related field, brings 4+ years of practical winemaking/QC experience, and shows strong analytical and communication skills for precise process control and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Oenology, Food Science, Chemistry, or a related field with a focus on winemaking.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands‑on experience as an Oenologist or in a Quality Control role within the wine industry.
• Thorough understanding of fermentation science, wine chemistry, and sensory analysis.

Responsibilities

• Manage and monitor fermentation processes for various wine batches, ensuring optimal conditions and outcomes.
• Conduct regular laboratory analyses of grape must, juices, and wines throughout the winemaking cycle (e.g., sugar, acidity, pH, SO2, volatile acidity).
• Oversee wine maturation, aging, racking, and fining processes.
• Perform sensory evaluations and taste profiles to assess wine quality at different stages.
• Develop and implement quality control protocols and procedures to ensure consistency and adherence to standards.
• Assist in blending trials and final wine assemblage to achieve desired flavour profiles and quality targets.
• Maintain inventory of wine, yeast, nutrients, and other winemaking materials.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and hygiene regulations in the cellar and laboratory.
• Maintain detailed records of winemaking activities, analyses, and quality control results.
• Stay updated on advancements in oenology and quality assurance practices.

Skills

Oenology

Quality control

Laboratory skills

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Bachelor/Master in Oenology or related field

Tools

Analytical instruments

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished winery located in the scenic Paarl region of the Western Cape , is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Oenologist & Quality Control Specialist . This critical role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the winemaking process, ensuring the consistent production of exceptional quality wines. You will be involved in everything from fermentation management and wine maturation to rigorous quality testing and final blending. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific foundation in oenology, meticulous attention to detail, and a passion for crafting outstanding wines. You will work closely with the vineyard and cellar teams to uphold the highest standards of quality and consistency. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute your expertise to a respected winery, helping to maintain and enhance its reputation for producing superior wines. Your analytical skills and dedication to quality will be paramount.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and monitor fermentation processes for various wine batches, ensuring optimal conditions and outcomes.
• Conduct regular laboratory analyses of grape must, juices, and wines throughout the winemaking cycle (e.g., sugar, acidity, pH, SO2, volatile acidity).
• Oversee wine maturation, aging, racking, and fining processes.
• Perform sensory evaluations and taste profiles to assess wine quality at different stages.
• Develop and implement quality control protocols and procedures to ensure consistency and adherence to standards.
• Assist in blending trials and final wine assemblage to achieve desired flavour profiles and quality targets.
• Manage inventory of wine, yeast, nutrients, and other winemaking materials.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and hygiene regulations in the cellar and laboratory.
• Maintain detailed records of all winemaking activities, analyses, and quality control results.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in oenology, winemaking techniques, and quality assurance practices.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Oenology, Food Science, Chemistry, or a related field with a focus on winemaking.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience as an Oenologist or in a Quality Control role within the wine industry.
• Thorough understanding of fermentation science, wine chemistry, and sensory analysis.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques and the use of analytical equipment relevant to winemaking.
• Experience with quality management systems and HACCP principles.
• Strong attention to detail and a systematic approach to problem-solving.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Knowledge of the South African wine industry is advantageous.

Benefits

• A competitive salary package based on experience and qualifications.
• Opportunity to work in the renowned wine region of Paarl .
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous staff wine allocation and discounts.
• Support for ongoing professional development and training.
• A dynamic and passionate work environment focused on quality.