Viticulture Manager - Vineyard Operations

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Viticulture Manager to lead extensive vineyard operations in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The role oversees soil prep, planting, canopy management, pest control, irrigation, and harvest to produce premium grapes for winemaking.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in vineyard management, deep knowledge of grape varietals, soil science, and climate impacts, plus leadership and data analysis skills to optimise yields and quality.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related agricultural discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive vineyard management experience in premium wine grape production.
• Strong knowledge of grape varietals, soil science, climate influences, and sustainable viticulture.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for vineyard development, management, and optimisation.
• Oversee grapevine cultivation including pruning, canopy management, and fruit thinning.
• Implement integrated pest and disease management programs to protect vines and ensure fruit quality.
• Manage irrigation and soil nutrition programs based on vineyard analysis and varietal needs.
• Supervise and train vineyard team; maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, yields, costs, and health.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and sustainable viticulture standards.
• Collaborate with winemaking team to ensure grape quality meets varietal and stylistic requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Plant Science or related agricultural discipline

Tools

Vineyard management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished name in the wine industry, is seeking an experienced Viticulture Manager to lead their extensive vineyard operations in the renowned wine-producing region of Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This pivotal role is responsible for the strategic management and day-to-day cultivation of premium grapevines, ensuring the highest quality fruit for winemaking. The Viticulture Manager will oversee all vineyard activities, from soil preparation and planting to canopy management, pest control, and harvesting, employing cutting-edge viticultural practices. This position requires a deep understanding of grape varietals, soil science, climate influences, and sustainable viticulture, particularly within the unique microclimates of the Western Cape . The successful candidate will manage a dedicated vineyard team and work closely with the winemaking staff to achieve exceptional wine quality. This is an outstanding opportunity to shape the future of a prestigious wine estate in the picturesque area of Mossel Bay .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for vineyard development, management, and optimisation.
• Oversee all aspects of grapevine cultivation, including pruning, shoot thinning, canopy management, and fruit thinning.
• Implement integrated pest and disease management programs to protect vines and ensure fruit quality.
• Manage irrigation systems and soil nutrition programs based on vineyard analysis and varietal needs.
• Monitor vineyard conditions, including weather, soil moisture, and pest/disease pressure.
• Supervise, train, and manage a vineyard team, fostering a culture of excellence and safety.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, yields, costs, and vineyard health.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and sustainable viticulture standards.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to ensure grape quality meets specific varietal and stylistic requirements.
• Manage vineyard budgets, including expenses for labour, equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Oversee the maintenance and operation of vineyard machinery and equipment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related agricultural discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in vineyard management, with a proven track record in premium wine grape production.
• In-depth knowledge of various grape varietals, their cultivation requirements, and optimal growing conditions.
• Strong understanding of soil science, climate impacts, and sustainable viticulture practices.
• Experience with irrigation management and fertigation in viticulture.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in vineyard management software and data analysis.
• Ability to analyse vineyard data and make informed decisions to improve grape quality and yield.
• Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to changing environmental conditions.
• Passion for wine and a commitment to producing high-quality grapes.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, including performance bonuses, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and significant opportunities for professional development within the esteemed wine industry.
• This role offers the unique advantage of working in the beautiful Mossel Bay region and contributing to the creation of world-class wines.
• You will be part of a respected organisation that values quality, innovation, and employee growth.
• Relocation assistance may be available for highly qualified candidates.