Viticulturist - Premium Wine Estate Management

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation on or near estate

Health insurance and retirement plan

Annual leave

Estate wines and exclusive benefits

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, seeks an experienced Viticulturist to lead vineyard operations and drive grape quality across the estate. You will manage pruning, canopy, irrigation, soil health, harvest planning, and collaborate with the winemaker to shape wine styles from the vines.

The role is hands-on and requires a strong background in viticulture, soil science, and sustainable practices, with staff leadership and a passion for high-quality grapes from the Mossel Bay terroir.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, or Agronomy.
• Minimum 6 years practical viticulture experience.
• Proven vineyard management and staff supervision.
• Deep knowledge of grape physiology, soil science, and climate management for wine production.
• Strong communication and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee vineyard management: pruning, canopy management, irrigation, and nutrient application.
• Monitor vine health, pests, diseases, and abiotic stresses.
• Conduct soil and tissue analysis to inform decisions.
• Implement sustainable and organic viticultural practices.
• Manage and train vineyard staff.
• Plan and manage grape harvest for optimal ripeness and quality.
• Collaborate with the winemaker to achieve desired wine styles.
• Maintain records of vineyard activities, yields, and quality.
• Research new grape varieties, rootstocks, and vineyard technologies.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and agricultural regulations.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication

Leadership

Problem-solving

Education

Master's degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Agronomy

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned premium wine estate located in the picturesque Mossel Bay, Western Cape, ZA, is seeking an experienced and passionate Viticulturist to lead their vineyard operations. This critical role involves the meticulous management of grapevines, from cultivation and health monitoring to optimal harvesting, ensuring the production of world-class wine grapes. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of viticulture, soil science, climate influences, and sustainable vineyard management practices. You will be responsible for driving quality and yield improvements, managing a vineyard team, and implementing innovative techniques to enhance grape quality. This is a hands-on position based at the estate in Mossel Bay, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of exceptional wines from this esteemed region.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of vineyard management, including pruning, canopy management, irrigation, and nutrient application.
• Monitor vine health, identify and manage pests, diseases, and abiotic stresses specific to the Western Cape environment.
• Conduct detailed soil and tissue analysis to inform vineyard management decisions.
• Implement sustainable and organic viticultural practices to ensure environmental stewardship.
• Manage and train vineyard staff, ensuring efficient and high-quality work execution.
• Plan and manage the grape harvest, ensuring optimal ripeness and quality for winemaking.
• Work closely with the winemaker to achieve desired wine styles and quality from the grapes.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, yields, and quality assessments.
• Research and evaluate new grape varieties, rootstocks, and vineyard technologies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental and agricultural regulations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or equivalent qualification in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of practical experience in viticulture, preferably within a premium wine-producing region.
• Proven experience in managing vineyards, including staff supervision and operational planning.
• In-depth knowledge of grape physiology, soil science, and climate management for wine production.
• Demonstrated understanding of pests and diseases affecting grapevines and their management.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret vineyard data and make informed decisions.
Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physical tasks as required.
• Passion for winemaking and a commitment to producing high-quality grapes.
• Familiarity with the specific microclimates and terroirs of the Mossel Bay region is an advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Accommodation on or near the estate may be provided.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plan.
• Generous annual leave.
• Access to the estate's wines and other exclusive benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and industry engagement.
• A beautiful and inspiring work environment.
• Direct involvement in the production of award-winning wines.