Senior Vineyard Manager - Premium Wine Estate

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary commensurate with experience

Performance bonus

Health benefits

Professional development

Wine allowance and staff discounts

Accommodation may be provided

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Vineyard Manager to lead premium estate viticulture in Stellenbosch. You will design and execute vineyard plans, optimize canopy, irrigation, and harvest decisions, and drive high-quality grape production.

The role emphasizes leadership, sustainable farming, and collaboration with the winemaking team to achieve stylistic goals. A strong track record on premium estates and passion for wine are essential.

Qualifications

• A degree or diploma in Viticulture, Agricultural Science, Horticulture, or equivalent.
• Minimum of 6 years hands-on vineyard management experience on premium wine estates.
• Deep knowledge of grape varietals, soil science, climate influences, and pest/disease management in viticulture.
• Proven experience with irrigation management, canopy management, and yield optimization.
• Demonstrated leadership and team-management skills.
• Strong commitment to sustainable farming and record-keeping.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans covering pruning, irrigation, and crop-load management.
• Oversee day-to-day vineyard operations ensuring vine health, vitality, and productivity.
• Lead and train vineyard teams, promoting safety and efficiency.
• Monitor sustainable viticultural practices including organic and biodynamic principles where applicable.
• Conduct regular vineyard inspections to identify issues and apply timely control measures.
• Collaborate with the head winemaker to meet quality and stylistic targets.
• Maintain accurate records of inputs, yields, and costs.
• Stay abreast of the latest viticultural research and technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Analytical

Problem solving

Viticulture knowledge

Irrigation management

Pest/disease management

Canopy management

Record-keeping

Education

Degree or diploma in Viticulture/Agricultural Science/Horticulture

Tools

Vineyard management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious wine estate located in the heart of the Stellenbosch wine region, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Senior Vineyard Manager . This pivotal role is responsible for the meticulous management and cultivation of premium grape varietals, ensuring the highest quality fruit for world-class wines. You will oversee all vineyard operations, from soil preparation and vine planting to canopy management, pest control, and harvesting, with a strong focus on sustainable practices and achieving optimal ripeness and flavour profiles. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of viticulture, exceptional leadership skills, and a passion for producing exceptional grapes. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the legacy of a renowned estate, working with cutting‑edge viticultural techniques and a skilled team in one of South Africa's most esteemed wine‑producing areas. Your expertise will be instrumental in maintaining and elevating the estate's reputation for quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans, including crop-load management, pruning strategies, and irrigation schedules.
• Oversee the day‑to‑day operations of the vineyards, ensuring the health, vitality, and productivity of all vines.
• Manage and train vineyard teams, fostering a productive and safety‑conscious work environment.
• Implement and monitor sustainable viticultural practices, including organic and biodynamic principles where applicable.
• Conduct regular vineyard inspections to assess vine health, identify potential disease or pest issues, and implement timely control measures.
• Determine optimal harvest dates based on scientific analysis of grape maturity (sugar, acid, phenolic ripeness).
• Manage vineyard equipment, ensuring proper maintenance and efficient operation.
• Maintain accurate records of vineyard activities, inputs, yields, and costs.
• Collaborate with the winery's head winemaker to ensure grapes meet specific quality and stylistic requirements.
• Stay current with the latest research and innovations in viticulture and vineyard technology.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Viticulture, Agricultural Science, Horticulture, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in vineyard management, preferably within a premium wine estate environment.
• In‑depth knowledge of grape varietals, soil science, climate influences, and pest/disease management specific to viticulture.
• Proven experience with irrigation management, canopy management, and yield optimization techniques.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Strong understanding of sustainable farming practices.
• Proficiency in record‑keeping and vineyard management software.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• A passion for wine and a dedication to producing high‑quality grapes.

Benefits

• A competitive salary commensurate with experience and a performance‑based bonus.
• Access to a beautiful and stimulating work environment in Stellenbosch .
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and attending industry conferences.
• Generous wine allowance and staff discounts.
• Accommodation may be provided or arranged.