Senior Oenologist & Winemaking R&D Leader (Paarl)

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonus structure

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Generous retirement plan contributions

Professional development funding

Relocation assistance available

Employee discounts on wines

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an innovative Oenologist with a strong R&D focus to lead research and development in Paarl, Western Cape. The role demands expertise in fermentation science, wine chemistry, and sensory evaluation, with collaboration across vineyard teams and QA.

You will drive new wine styles, process innovations, and quality enhancements while mentoring lab staff. The ideal candidate has a Master’s (or PhD) in Oenology and a proven track record in commercial winemaking research, ready

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in a relevant field is required.
• Minimum 7 years in winemaking with a strong R&D focus.
• Proven track record in developing new winemaking techniques or products.
• Strong knowledge of fermentation science, wine chemistry, microbiology and sensory evaluation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct research projects on new winemaking technologies, yeast strains, fermentation, and aging processes.
• Develop and pilot new wine blends and styles for potential market appeal.
• Collaborate with viticulturists to optimize grape quality and vineyard practices for winemaking results.
• Conduct detailed sensory and chemical analysis of wines throughout production.
• Troubleshoot oenological challenges during fermentation and maturation.
• Stay abreast of scientific advancements, industry trends, and regulatory changes.

Skills

Fermentation science

Wine chemistry

Microbiology

Sensory evaluation

Education

Master's degree in Oenology

PhD in Oenology or related field

Tools

HPLC

GC-MS

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an innovative Oenologist with a strong R&D focus to lead research and development in Paarl, Western Cape. The role demands expertise in fermentation science, wine chemistry, and sensory evaluation, with collaboration across vineyard teams and QA.

You will drive new wine styles, process innovations, and quality enhancements while mentoring lab staff. The ideal candidate has a Master’s (or PhD) in Oenology and a proven track record in commercial winemaking research, ready