Viticulture and Oenology Specialist - Wine Production

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

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious winery located in the heart of the renowned Cape Winelands, is seeking an accomplished Viticulture and Oenology Specialist. This integral role, based in scenic Mossel Bay, Western Cape , will oversee both vineyard management and the winemaking process, ensuring the production of exceptional quality wines that reflect the unique terroir. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of viticulture best practices, grape growing conditions, and the intricate science and art of winemaking. You will be responsible for guiding the vineyard from grape to glass, working closely with vineyard teams and cellar staff to achieve optimal results. This is a hands-on position that requires passion, precision, and a commitment to excellence in every aspect of wine production.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of vineyard operations, including soil preparation, planting, irrigation, pest and disease control, pruning, and canopy management.
• Monitor grape development and quality throughout the growing season, making critical decisions regarding harvest timing.
• Oversee the entire winemaking process, from grape reception and fermentation to aging, blending, and bottling.
• Develop and implement quality control measures at every stage of production.
• Manage cellar operations, including sanitation, equipment maintenance, and inventory of winemaking supplies.
• Conduct sensory evaluations and laboratory analyses to assess wine quality and characteristics.
• Maintain accurate records of vineyard yields, grape analysis, winemaking activities, and final wine attributes.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations in both vineyard and cellar.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in viticulture and oenology techniques and technologies.
• Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to align wine styles with market demands and consumer preferences.
• Manage budgets for vineyard and cellar operations, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
• Supervise and train vineyard and cellar staff, fostering a culture of quality and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Master's degree or equivalent qualification in Viticulture, Oenology, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of comprehensive experience in both vineyard management and winemaking.
• In-depth knowledge of grape varietals suited to the Western Cape climate and soil types.
• Strong understanding of fermentation science, yeast management, and maturation techniques.
• Experience with wine analysis, quality control, and sensory evaluation.
• Proficiency in cellar operations, including the use of winemaking equipment and relevant software.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem‑solving abilities and a meticulous attention to detail.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to work seasonally demanding hours.
• Passion for wine and a commitment to producing high‑quality products.
• Knowledge of sustainable viticulture practices is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package, commensurate with experience and expertise, potentially including profit-sharing based on winery performance. Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits are provided. Opportunities for international travel to wine‑related expos and educational programs are available. The position includes a company vehicle for vineyard and operational travel in and around Mossel Bay . Employees also benefit from wine tasting privileges and staff discounts. This is an on‑site role offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of fine wine production.