Vineyard Manager (Boutique Winery Focus)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Sur place; ZAR 700 000 - 1 100 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Competitive salary package

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

On-site in Stellenbosch

Professional development opportunities

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Vineyard Manager for a boutique winery in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will oversee all vineyard operations to produce premium grapes, manage seasonal work, and collaborate closely with the winemaking team to ensure grape quality meets exacting winery standards.

The role requires a passion for wine, meticulous record keeping, and a proactive approach to sustainable farming.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agriculture, or related field.
• 4–6 years of vineyard management experience, preferably with premium wine grape production.
• Strong knowledge of grapevine physiology and cool-climate viticulture for the Western Cape.
• Experience with sustainable and/or organic farming practices.
• Hands-on experience with irrigation, pest and disease management, and canopy management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to work outdoors in varying weather.

Responsabilités

• Manage day-to-day operations of the vineyards.
• Implement sustainable and organic vineyard practices.
• Oversee harvest operations with precise grape handling.
• Maintain records of vineyard activities and yields.
• Monitor soil health, vine health, and environmental conditions.
• Lead and train a small vineyard team.
• Coordinate with the winemaking team to meet quality specs.
• Maintain vineyard equipment and infrastructure.
• Stay updated with viticulture advancements.

Connaissances

Viticulture knowledge

Leadership

Irrigation management

Record keeping

Communication

Independent work

Sustainable farming

Formation

Degree or diploma in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agriculture

Outils

Irrigation systems

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious boutique winery located in the heart of the renowned wine region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , is seeking an experienced and passionate Vineyard Manager. This role is critical to the success of the winery, overseeing all aspects of vineyard operations to ensure the production of premium quality grapes. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of viticulture, sustainable farming practices, and meticulous attention to detail required for high-end wine production. This is a hands‑on role that demands a commitment to excellence, a keen eye for quality, and the ability to lead a small, dedicated vineyard team. We are dedicated to producing world‑class wines through exceptional vineyard management in the picturesque Stellenbosch valley.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all day-to-day operations of the vineyards, including planting, pruning, canopy management, irrigation, fertilization, and pest/disease control.
• Implement and monitor sustainable and organic vineyard practices to enhance grape quality and environmental stewardship.
• Oversee harvest operations, ensuring optimal timing and meticulous grape handling to preserve quality.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, including block performance, input applications, and yield data.
• Monitor soil health, vine health, and environmental conditions, making timely and informed decisions.
• Manage vineyard staff, providing training, supervision, and performance feedback.
• Ensure the efficient use of water, nutrients, and other resources within the vineyards.
• Coordinate with the winemaking team to ensure grape quality meets specific winery requirements and style.
• Maintain vineyard equipment and infrastructure, ensuring they are in good working order.
• Stay current with advancements in viticulture techniques and technologies relevant to premium wine production.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in vineyard management, preferably with exposure to premium wine grape production.
• Strong knowledge of grapevine physiology, varietal characteristics, and cool-climate viticulture relevant to the Western Cape .
• Proven experience with sustainable and/or organic farming practices.
• Hands‑on experience with irrigation systems, pest and disease management, and canopy management techniques.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a small team effectively.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and basic computer skills.
• A passion for wine and a commitment to producing high-quality grapes.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, plus performance-based bonuses tied to grape quality and yield.
• Employees benefit from comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• This role provides a unique opportunity to work intimately with world‑class vineyards in one of South Africa's premier wine regions.
• Continuous professional development opportunities are available.
• The position is based on-site in Stellenbosch , offering a deeply integrated role within a respected boutique winery.
• Our client fosters a collaborative and quality-driven work culture.
• You will have the satisfaction of directly contributing to the creation of exceptional wines.