Senior Viticulturist, Cool-Climate Grapes & Pinot/Chardonnay

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

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.