Viticulturist - Premium Wine Estates

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybride; ZAR 520 000 - 780 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Housing allowance

Company vehicle

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Employee wine purchase schemes

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Viticulturist to lead vineyard management across premium estates in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will drive sustainable practices, optimize grape quality, and oversee soil health, irrigation, and canopy management.

A strong focus on data-driven decisions and team leadership will be essential. The role requires a strong background in viticulture, 5+ years of experience, and the ability to collaborate with winemaking teams to meet quality targets in a dynamic

Qualifications

• Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of viticulture experience.
• Knowledge of grape varietals, rootstock and terroir.
• Experience in irrigation, nutrient, pest and disease management.
• Familiarity with sustainable/organic viticulture.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Proficiency with vineyard management software.
• Valid driver’s license; willingness to work flexible hours in Mossel Bay.

Responsabilités

• Develop and implement vineyard management plans for planting, trellising and pruning.
• Oversee irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control using integrated methods.
• Monitor phenology and harvest timing based on fruit maturity.
• Conduct regular vineyard walks to assess health and soil conditions.
• Supervise and train vineyard staff; ensure safety standards.
• Manage vineyard resources including water, fertilizer and equipment.

Connaissances

Leadership

Communication

Analytical

Problem-solving

Vineyard management

Formation

Degree in Viticulture/Horticulture/Plant Science

Outils

Vineyard management software

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious group of premium wine estates, is seeking a highly skilled and passionate Viticulturist to manage and enhance their vineyards in the renowned Mossel Bay, Western Cape region. This role is central to producing world-class grapes, focusing on meticulous vineyard management, sustainable practices, and the pursuit of exceptional fruit quality. The Viticulturist will oversee all aspects of vineyard operations, from soil preparation and planting to canopy management, irrigation, pest and disease control, and ultimately, harvesting. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of grape varietals, soil science, climate influences, and the intricate relationship between vineyard health and wine quality. This position offers a unique opportunity to work with diverse terroir and contribute to the legacy of acclaimed South African wines. You will be responsible for implementing innovative viticultural techniques to optimize yield and quality while ensuring environmental sustainability. We are looking for an individual with a keen eye for detail, strong leadership capabilities, and a commitment to excellence in Mossel Bay. This role is critical for the continued success and reputation of our client's esteemed wine portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans, including planting, trellising, and pruning strategies.
• Manage all aspects of vineyard health, including irrigation, fertilization, pest, and disease control using integrated management principles.
• Monitor grape phenology, berry development, and biochemical maturity to determine optimal harvest timing.
• Conduct regular vineyard walks to assess vine health, soil conditions, and identify potential issues.
• Supervise and train vineyard staff, ensuring high standards of work and safety.
• Manage vineyard resources, including water allocation, fertilizer application, and equipment usage.
• Implement sustainable viticultural practices to enhance soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation.
• Maintain accurate records of all vineyard activities, inputs, and yield data.
• Collaborate with the winemaking team to ensure grape quality meets specific winemaking requirements.
• Stay abreast of the latest research and innovations in viticulture and enology.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Contribute to vineyard design and development for new plantings or replanting initiatives.

Requirements

• A degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related agricultural science field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in viticulture, with a strong emphasis on managing vineyards for premium wine production.
• In-depth knowledge of grape varietal characteristics, rootstock suitability, and terroir.
• Proven experience in irrigation management, nutrient management, and pest/disease control in vineyards.
• Familiarity with sustainable and organic viticultural practices.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret vineyard data.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in vineyard management software and general computer applications.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to work flexible hours during peak seasons in Mossel Bay.
• Passion for wine and a commitment to producing high-quality grapes.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflective of experience and expertise.
• Performance-based bonus structure.
• Access to high-quality housing or a generous housing allowance.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and attending wine industry conferences.
• Employee wine purchase schemes and tasting opportunities.
• A beautiful working environment in the heart of the wine region.
• Company vehicle provided for vineyard operations.
• A supportive and collaborative team culture.