Viticulture Manager

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation options

Health benefits

Wine allowances

Performance-related bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Viticulture Manager to lead vineyard operations in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This senior role focuses on the health, growth, and yield of the vineyards to produce premium grapes for winemaking, blending viticultural science with sustainable farming.

You will manage a dedicated team, implement cutting-edge vineyard techniques, monitor canopy and irrigation, and ensure records, budgets, and compliance while upholding the estate's reputation for excellence in

Qualifications

• Degree in Viticulture, Agricultural Science, or agronomy; Master’s preferred.
• Minimum 8 years in vineyard management with progressive responsibilities.
• Strong knowledge of soil science, plant physiology, IPM, and climate adaptation.
• Experience with vineyard mapping, data collection and analysis.
• Proven leadership and ability to manage budgets and teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement vineyard management plans, including pruning and canopy control.
• Oversee grape cultivation, canopy health, fruit set, and ripening.
• Manage irrigation, nutrition programs, and soil management.
• Lead IPM strategies tailored to local climate and conditions.
• Train and supervise vineyard staff; ensure safety and quality records.
• Monitor performance using data analysis and sensory evaluation.
• Oversee equipment, maintenance, harvest timing, and records.

Skills

Leadership

Canopy management

Pest/disease management

Data analysis

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Viticulture or related field

Master's degree (advantageous)

Tools

Farm management software

Office applications

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine estate, is seeking an experienced Viticulture Manager to lead their vineyard operations in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This senior role is responsible for the health, growth, and yield of the vineyards, ensuring the production of premium quality grapes for winemaking. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of viticultural science, soil management, climate adaptation, and sustainable farming practices. You will manage a dedicated team, implement cutting-edge vineyard techniques, and oversee all vineyard activities from pruning to harvest. This is a critical position for maintaining the estate's reputation for excellence in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of their grape cultivation and contributing to the region's prestigious wine industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive vineyard management plans, including canopy management, pruning, trellising, and disease control.
• Oversee all aspects of grape cultivation, ensuring optimal vine health, fruit set, and ripeness.
• Manage irrigation systems and nutrient programs to maximize vine potential and grape quality.
• Implement integrated pest and disease management (IPM) strategies tailored to the local climate and conditions.
• Lead and train vineyard staff, ensuring high standards of work and safety.
• Monitor vineyard performance using data analysis and sensory evaluation.
• Manage vineyard equipment and infrastructure, ensuring timely maintenance and upgrades.
• Oversee the harvesting process, ensuring optimal timing and quality of grape collection.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, inputs, yields, and quality assessments.
• Ensure compliance with environmental sustainability standards and regulations.

Requirements

• Degree in Viticulture, Agricultural Science, Agronomy, or a related field. A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in vineyard management.
• Proven expertise in viticultural practices, including cold climate viticulture and specific varietal needs.
• Strong understanding of soil science, plant physiology, and pest/disease management in vineyards.
• Experience with vineyard mapping, data collection, and analysis.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and standard office applications.
• Ability to develop and manage budgets effectively.
• Knowledge of winemaking processes and grape quality parameters is a significant plus.
• A passion for wine and a commitment to producing exceptional grapes in Mossel Bay, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-related bonuses, accommodation options, comprehensive health benefits, and wine allowances.
• You will have the opportunity to work in a beautiful setting in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, contributing to the production of world-class wines and advancing your career in viticulture.