Viticulturist - Premium Wine Estate

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Leave provisions

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Viticulturist for a premium Mossel Bay wine estate. The role centers on hands-on grape cultivation, canopy management, and sustainable vineyard practices to deliver high-quality fruit for winemaking.

You will lead vineyard health programs, monitor ripeness, optimize irrigation, and work closely with the winemaker to align vineyard outputs with cellar goals. A strong track record in premium viticulture is essential.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of practical viticulture experience on premium estates.
• Knowledge of grape varietals suitable for Western Cape and cultivation requirements.
• Experience identifying and managing vineyard pests and diseases.
• Understanding of irrigation techniques and water management for vineyards.
• Proficiency in vineyard mapping and data management software.
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail.
• Leadership and team management abilities.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to work outdoors.

Responsibilities

• Oversee health, nutrition, and pest/disease management of vineyards.
• Implement canopy management to optimize sunlight exposure and fruit quality.
• Monitor grape development, sugar levels, and phenolic ripeness for harvest timing.
• Manage irrigation systems to ensure water supply while promoting quality.
• Plan and supervise pruning, shoot thinning, and leaf removal; keep records.
• Conduct soil and tissue analysis to guide vineyard decisions.
• Promote sustainable viticulture practices, including cover crops and organic methods.
• Lead vineyard staff and supervise performance.
• Document vineyard operations, yields, and inputs.
• Collaborate with winemaker to achieve desired wine styles.

Skills

Grape cultivation

Vineyard management

Leadership

Data analysis

Education

Degree in Viticulture

Tools

GIS mapping

Data management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious wine estate renowned for its exceptional quality wines, is seeking an experienced and passionate Viticulturist to join their team in the scenic region of Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This is a hands-on role focused on managing all aspects of grape cultivation to produce the finest grapes for winemaking. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of viticultural science, meticulous attention to detail, and a commitment to sustainable vineyard practices. You will be responsible for vineyard health, canopy management, yield optimization, and ensuring the highest quality fruit is delivered to the cellar. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the legacy of a celebrated wine producer in one of South Africa's premier wine-growing areas. You will work closely with the winemaker and cellar team to achieve outstanding results.

Key Responsibilities

• Overseeing the health, nutrition, and pest/disease management of the vineyards.
• Implementing effective canopy management techniques to optimize sunlight exposure and fruit quality.
• Monitoring grape development, sugar levels, and phenolic ripeness for optimal harvest timing.
• Managing irrigation systems to ensure adequate water supply while promoting grape quality.
• Planning and supervising vineyard activities, including pruning, shoot thinning, and leaf removal.
• Conducting soil and tissue analysis to inform vineyard management decisions.
• Implementing and promoting sustainable viticultural practices, including cover cropping and organic methods.
• Managing vineyard staff, including training and performance supervision.
• Maintaining accurate records of vineyard operations, yields, and inputs.
• Collaborating closely with the winemaker to achieve desired wine styles.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of practical experience in viticulture, preferably within a premium wine-producing estate.
• Strong knowledge of grape varietals suitable for the Western Cape region and their specific cultivation requirements.
• Experience with vineyard pest and disease identification and management strategies.
• Understanding of irrigation techniques and water management for vineyards.
• Proficiency in vineyard mapping and data management software.
• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to work outdoors in varying conditions.
• Passion for winemaking and a commitment to producing high-quality grapes.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive benefits including medical aid and retirement fund contributions. Employees enjoy generous leave provisions and access to the estate's amenities. Opportunities for professional development, including industry workshops and conferences, are provided. This role offers the unique chance to be part of a world-class wine-producing operation in the beautiful Mossel Bay region. Join a passionate team dedicated to the art and science of winemaking, contributing to the reputation of our esteemed brand in the heart of the Western Cape .