Senior Viticulturist - Cool Climate Expertise

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Life insurance

Retirement plan

Wine allowance

Annual leave

Travel opportunities

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Viticulturist for a prestigious Stellenbosch wine estate. The role leads vineyard operations, with a focus on cool-climate viticulture to produce premium quality grapes for high-end wines.

You will guide strategy from establishment to harvest, collaborating closely with the winemaker to achieve exacting quality targets. The ideal candidate brings 8+ years in viticulture, MSc/PhD in a related field, and strong leadership.

Qualifications

• MSc or Ph.D. in Viticulture, Plant Science, or related field.
• At least 8 years in viticulture with cool-climate grape production.
• Expertise in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay preferred.
• Strong knowledge of soil science, irrigation, and sustainable viticultural practices.
• Proven pest and disease management experience.
• Excellent leadership and team management capabilities.
• Proficiency with viticultural software, GIS, and data analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop long-term vineyard strategic plans, including varietal selection and layout.
• Oversee vineyard operations for premium cool-climate varietals and optimize vine health and water use.
• Implement canopy management techniques to improve light interception and fruit quality.
• Manage integrated pest and disease programs with sustainable practices.
• Conduct soil analyses and implement soil health programs.
• Mentor and supervise the vineyard team for high performance.
• Collaborate with the winemaker to meet stylistic and chemical grape quality requirements.
• Manage vineyard budgets, resources and efficiencies.
• Stay updated on research and tech in cool-climate viticulture and adopt relevant innovations.
• Ensure compliance with sustainability standards and certifications.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

MSc or Ph.D. in Viticulture, Plant Science, or related field

Tools

GIS

Viticultural software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected wine estate situated in the renowned viticultural region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , is seeking a Senior Viticulturist to lead their esteemed vineyard operations. This strategic role requires extensive expertise in cool-climate viticulture, focusing on producing exceptional quality grapes for premium wines. The Senior Viticulturist will be responsible for the strategic planning, management, and continuous improvement of all vineyard practices, from vineyard design and establishment to canopy management, disease control, and harvest. A profound understanding of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other cool-climate varietals is essential. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership qualities, excellent analytical skills, and a commitment to sustainable and innovative vineyard management. You will collaborate closely with the winemaker and vineyard team to achieve specific quality targets and enhance the estate's reputation for excellence. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in one of South Africa's most prestigious wine-growing areas and contribute to the legacy of fine winemaking through meticulous grape cultivation. Your role will involve advanced scientific application and detailed operational oversight to ensure optimal fruit expression.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute long-term vineyard strategic plans, including varietal selection, clonal choices, rootstock evaluation, and vineyard layout.
• Oversee all vineyard operations for premium cool-climate varietals, ensuring optimal vine health, nutrient management, and water use efficiency.
• Implement advanced canopy management techniques to optimize light interception and fruit quality.
• Manage integrated pest and disease management programs, focusing on sustainable and environmentally friendly approaches.
• Conduct detailed soil analysis and implement targeted soil health management programs.
• Supervise and mentor the vineyard team, fostering a culture of continuous learning and high performance.
• Collaborate with the winemaker to ensure grape quality meets specific stylistic and chemical requirements for premium wine production.
• Manage vineyard budgets, resource allocation, and operational efficiencies.
• Stay abreast of the latest research and technologies in cool-climate viticulture and implement relevant innovations.
• Ensure compliance with sustainability standards and certifications relevant to premium wine production.

Requirements

• MSc or Ph.D. in Viticulture, Plant Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in viticulture, with significant experience in cool-climate grape growing and premium wine grape production.
• Demonstrated expertise in the cultivation of key cool-climate varietals (e.g., Pinot Noir, Chardonnay).
• Strong knowledge of soil science, irrigation management, and sustainable viticultural practices.
• Proven experience in managing vineyard pests and diseases in sensitive environments.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Proficiency in viticultural software, GIS, and data analysis tools.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• A deep understanding of the terroir and microclimates of the Stellenbosch region.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure reflecting senior expertise.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement plan.
• Generous annual leave and wine allowance.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• Access to state-of-the-art vineyard and winery facilities.
• Relocation assistance for exceptional candidates.
• The opportunity to shape the future of a prestigious wine estate.