Senior Oenologist & Viticulturist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development

International study tours

Job summary

Upington Winery in the Northern Cape seeks a Senior Oenologist & Viticulturist to lead winemaking from vineyard to bottle. This dual role manages vineyard health, fermentation, aging, blending, quality control, and innovation to produce premium wines.

The successful candidate will have a Masters or PhD in Oenology or Viticulture, 8+ years' experience, and strong leadership to mentor vineyard and cellar teams in a fast-paced, quality-driven environment in Upington.

Qualifications

• Masters or PhD in Oenology, Viticulture or related field.
• 8+ years in both oenology and viticulture, premium estate preferred.
• Proven track record of award-winning wines.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee vineyard operations and canopy management.
• Direct fermentation, aging, and blending processes.
• Maintain quality control across production cycles.
• Lead budgeting and strategic investments.
• Mentor vineyard and cellar teams; drive continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and SA wine regulations.
• Collaborate with sales to align wine styles with market needs.
• Taste wines during aging to guide development.

Skills

leadership

communication

quality control

Education

Master's or PhD in Oenology or Viticulture

Tools

Wine analysis equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished winery located in the heart of the Upington wine-growing region, Northern Cape, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Oenologist & Viticulturist. This dual role is critical to managing all aspects of wine production, from vineyard management to the final bottled product. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of both grape cultivation and winemaking processes, combined with a passion for producing high-quality wines. Responsibilities include overseeing vineyard health and yield optimization, directing fermentation and aging processes, ensuring quality control, and contributing to wine innovation and blending. This is a premier opportunity for a seasoned professional to lead winemaking operations in a significant South African wine-producing area. We are looking for a leader who can uphold the winery's reputation for excellence and innovation in the Northern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, pest and disease control, and harvesting.
• Monitor grape maturity and determine optimal harvest times to achieve desired quality and style.
• Manage all aspects of the winemaking process, including fermentation, maceration, pressing, clarification, aging, and blending.
• Conduct regular laboratory analysis of grapes, must, and wine to ensure quality and monitor progression.
• Implement and maintain stringent quality control measures throughout the production cycle.
• Develop and manage the winery's budget, including operational expenses and capital investments.
• Lead and mentor the vineyard and cellar teams, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Research and implement innovative viticultural and oenological techniques to enhance wine quality and sustainability.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety, environmental, and South African wine industry regulations.
• Manage inventory of wine, raw materials, and supplies.
• Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to ensure wine styles meet market expectations.
• Taste and evaluate wines throughout the aging process to guide development.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Oenology, Viticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in both oenology and viticulture, preferably within a premium wine estate.
• Proven track record of producing award-winning wines.
• In-depth knowledge of grape varietals, soil science, climate impacts, and sustainable viticultural practices.
• Comprehensive understanding of modern winemaking techniques, fermentation science, and wine microbiology.
• Experience with cellar management, including equipment operation and maintenance.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in wine analysis techniques and relevant laboratory equipment.
• Ability to work flexible hours, particularly during peak harvest and winemaking seasons.
• A meticulous approach to quality control and attention to detail.
• Passion for wine and a commitment to innovation and excellence.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a retirement fund, as well as performance-based bonuses tied to wine quality and production targets. Opportunities for professional development, including international study tours, are available. This role is based in Upington , Northern Cape , ZA , offering a chance to work in a key region of South Africa's wine industry.