Vineyard Manager & Viticulturist

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 520,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing on estate

Medical and retirement benefits

Wine tasting access

Estate access to wines

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl seeks a skilled Vineyard Manager & Viticulturist to oversee a renowned winery’s vineyards. You will manage all facets of viticulture, from soil health to harvest timing, ensuring premium grape quality for winemaking and close collaboration with the winemaking team.

The role requires deep knowledge of regional grape varietals, sustainable farming practices, and advanced vineyard techniques, with housing provided on or near the estate.

Qualifications

• Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy or related field.
• 5+ years vineyard management experience in Paarl or similar terroir.
• Knowledge of grape varietals and terroir.
• Experience with precision viticulture and IPM strategies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement vineyard management plans including irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control.
• Oversee all vineyard operations from planting and pruning to canopy management and harvest.
• Monitor vine health, soil conditions and grape maturity to determine optimal harvest timing.
• Manage vineyard staff, ensuring safe working practices and efficient workflow.
• Implement sustainable viticultural practices to enhance soil health and biodiversity.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to ensure grape quality meets specifications.

Skills

Viticulture expertise

Irrigation management

IPM knowledge

Staff management

Education

Degree in Viticulture / Horticulture / Agronomy

Tools

Irrigation systems

Canopy management equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned winery in the heart of the Cape Winelands, is seeking a skilled and passionate Vineyard Manager & Viticulturist to oversee their esteemed vineyards in Paarl. This crucial role demands expertise in all facets of viticulture, from soil management and canopy control to grape harvesting and quality assessment, with the goal of producing premium quality fruit for winemaking. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of grape varietals suited to the region, sustainable farming practices, and advanced vineyard management techniques. You will be instrumental in maintaining the exceptional quality and reputation of the estate's wines through meticulous vineyard stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans, including irrigation, fertilization, pest, and disease control strategies.
• Oversee all vineyard operations from planting and pruning to canopy management and fruit harvesting.
• Monitor vine health, soil conditions, and grape maturity to determine optimal harvest timing.
• Manage vineyard staff, ensuring efficient workflow, adherence to best practices, and a safe working environment.
• Implement and maintain sustainable viticultural practices to enhance soil health and biodiversity.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to ensure grape quality meets the desired specifications for wine production.

Requirements

• Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related agricultural science.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in vineyard management, preferably in the Paarl region or similar terroir.
• Strong knowledge of various grape varietals, rootstocks, and their specific growing requirements.
• Experience with precision viticulture techniques and irrigation management systems.
• Proficiency in pest and disease identification and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Provision of housing on or near the estate.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Access to exceptional wines and opportunities for wine tasting and education.
• A unique opportunity to contribute to a legacy of winemaking excellence.