Vineyard & Winemaking Lead (Viticulture/Oenology)

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Wine tasting privileges

Staff discounts

Job summary

A prestigious winery in the Cape Winelands, Mossel Bay, Western Cape, seeks a Viticulture and Oenology Specialist to oversee vineyard management and winemaking from grape to glass.

You will lead vineyard operations, manage the winemaking process, implement quality controls, and collaborate with sales to align wine styles with market demand.

Requires a master’s degree and at least six years of dual experience, with strong leadership and tasting skills.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Viticulture, Oenology, Agricultural Science, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years' experience in both vineyard management and winemaking.
• In-depth knowledge of Western Cape varietals, soils, and climate.
• Strong leadership and communication capabilities with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Oversee vineyard operations including soil prep, planting, irrigation, pruning, and canopy management.
• Monitor grape development and harvest timing to optimize quality.
• Manage the winemaking process from reception to aging and bottling.
• Establish and enforce quality control measures at all production stages.
• Supervise cellar operations, sanitation, equipment maintenance, and inventory.
• Conduct sensory evaluations and analytical testing to assess wine quality.
• Maintain records of yields, analyses, and final wine attributes.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree in Viticulture/Oenology

Tools

Winery software

Job description

A prestigious winery in the Cape Winelands, Mossel Bay, Western Cape, seeks a Viticulture and Oenology Specialist to oversee vineyard management and winemaking from grape to glass.

You will lead vineyard operations, manage the winemaking process, implement quality controls, and collaborate with sales to align wine styles with market demand.

Requires a master’s degree and at least six years of dual experience, with strong leadership and tasting skills.