Vineyard and Winery Manager

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension plan

Staff discounts

Professional development

Bonus potential

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch seeks a hands-on Vineyard and Winery Manager to lead a premier wine estate.

The role spans grape cultivation, winemaking, and end-to-end production, ensuring exceptional quality from vine to bottle. You will manage teams, implement sustainable practices, and monitor wine quality while aligning output with market demand.

Qualifications

• Degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Agricultural Science or related field.
• Minimum 5-8 years in vineyard and winery management.
• Strong track record of producing high-quality wines.

Responsibilities

• Oversee vineyard management including planting, pruning, irrigation and harvesting.
• Manage winemaking from grape reception to fermentation, maturation and bottling.
• Ensure quality control throughout production cycle and adhere to safety/environmental regulations.
• Lead and mentor vineyard & winery teams; maintain records of yields and data.
• Collaborate with sales/marketing to align production with demand.

Skills

Vineyard management

Winemaking

Leadership

Communication

Education

Degree in Viticulture/Oenology/Agricultural Science

Tools

Cellar management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine estate situated in the heart of the scenic wine region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Vineyard and Winery Manager. This critical role demands a unique blend of viticultural expertise, winemaking knowledge, and strong operational management capabilities. You will be responsible for overseeing the entire lifecycle of wine production, from grape cultivation in the vineyards to the final bottling and aging process in the winery. The ideal candidate will possess a deep passion for winemaking, a commitment to sustainable practices, and the leadership skills necessary to manage a dedicated team. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to the estate's legacy of producing exceptional wines, renowned both locally and internationally. You will be instrumental in maintaining the high quality and distinctive character of the estate's portfolio, ensuring continued success and innovation in the competitive wine industry. The role is hands‑on, requiring a presence in both the vineyard and the winery.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee all aspects of vineyard management, including planting, pruning, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting. Manage the winemaking process from grape reception to fermentation, maturation, and bottling. Ensure adherence to stringent quality control measures throughout the wine production cycle. Develop and implement sustainable viticulture and winemaking practices. Manage winery operations, including equipment maintenance and cellar hygiene. Lead and mentor the vineyard and winery teams, fostering a culture of excellence. Maintain accurate records of vineyard yields, winemaking data, and inventory. Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to align production with market demand. Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations. Monitor wine quality through regular analysis and sensory evaluation.

Requirements

Degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Agricultural Science, or a related field. Minimum of 5-8 years of progressive experience in vineyard and winery management. Proven track record of producing high-quality wines. Strong understanding of sustainable farming and winemaking practices. Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills. Proficiency in wine analysis techniques and cellar management software. Ability to work seasonally demanding hours, including weekends during harvest. Must be able to reside in or commute to the Stellenbosch, Western Cape region. Knowledge of international wine trends and South African wine industry is advantageous. Strong problem‑solving abilities and a meticulous attention to detail.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, reflecting the significant responsibilities of this role, along with performance‑based bonuses. This includes comprehensive medical aid and pension fund contributions. You will have the unique opportunity to work with exceptional grapes and wines in a world‑renowned winemaking region, contributing to the estate's esteemed reputation. Professional development and opportunities for further training are provided. Employees also enjoy staff discounts on wine purchases and other estate amenities. This is a rewarding position for a dedicated professional in the beautiful landscape of Stellenbosch .