Senior Oenologist & Viticulturist: Lead Winemaking

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Oenologist & Viticulturist to lead vineyard management and the winemaking process in Upington, Northern Cape. The role requires 8+ years in oenology and viticulture, with a proven track record of award-winning wines.

You will manage fermentation, aging, blending, and quality control while guiding teams and ensuring regulatory compliance. You will also drive innovation, budget management, and collaboration with sales to meet market expectations, contributing to

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Oenology, Viticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Oversee 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.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Quality control

Vineyard management

Fermentation knowledge

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Oenology or Viticulture

Agricultural Science or related field

Tools

Laboratory 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.