Senior Oenologist & Viticulturist: Lead Winemaking

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

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.