Viticulturist - Premium Wine Estates

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Viticulturist for premium Stellenbosch vineyards. The role is field-intensive with on-site presence, focusing on canopy management, irrigation, pest control, and harvest planning to deliver top-quality grapes for renowned wines.

With 5+ years in viticulture and a degree in Viticulture/Horticulture, you will lead vineyard operations, collaborate with winemakers, and manage staff, ensuring sustainable practices and regulatory compliance across the estate.

Qualifications

• A degree or diploma in Viticulture, Horticulture, Oenology, or a related agricultural science.
• Minimum 5 years of practical viticulture experience, preferably in premium wine production.
• Deep knowledge of vine physiology, soil science and pest/disease management.
• Experience managing vineyard staff and operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily vineyard operations, ensuring vineyard health and productivity.
• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans including pruning, training, canopy management, and shoot thinning.
• Manage irrigation systems to optimize water use and vine performance.
• Monitor vineyards for pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies, implementing IPM and sustainable practices.
• Plan and supervise harvest activities, ensuring optimal grape quality and timing.
• Manage vineyard staff, providing training and supervision to ensure efficient and safe execution of tasks.
• Conduct soil analysis and nutrient management planning.
• Collaborate with winemakers to ensure grape quality meets wine production requirements.
• Maintain accurate records of all vineyard activities, inputs, and yields.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and environmental standards.

Skills

Grape growing

Soil management

Vineyard operations

Irrigation management

Pest and disease control

IPM implementation

Staff supervision

Record keeping

Communication skills

Education

Viticulture/Horticulture/Oenology degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client is an esteemed group of premium wine estates located in the heart of the renowned Stellenbosch wine-producing region, celebrated for its award-winning wines and commitment to viticultural excellence. We are seeking an exceptional Viticulturist to join our dedicated team. This role requires a passionate individual with a deep understanding of grape growing, soil management, and vineyard practices, tailored to producing the highest quality grapes for fine wines. The position is field-intensive, requiring significant on-site presence to meticulously manage our vineyards throughout the year. You will be responsible for all aspects of vineyard operations, from canopy management and irrigation to pest control and harvesting. This is a unique opportunity for a skilled viticulturist to contribute to the legacy of some of the Cape's most prestigious wine brands.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily vineyard operations, ensuring the health and productivity of the vines.
• Develop and implement comprehensive vineyard management plans, including pruning, training, canopy management, and shoot thinning.
• Manage irrigation systems to optimize water use and vine performance, considering soil type and weather conditions.
• Monitor vineyards for pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies, implementing integrated pest management (IPM) and sustainable practices.
• Plan and supervise harvest activities, ensuring optimal grape quality and timing.
• Manage vineyard staff, providing training and supervision to ensure efficient and safe execution of tasks.
• Conduct soil analysis and nutrient management planning.
• Work closely with winemakers to ensure grape quality meets the specific requirements for wine production.
• Maintain accurate records of all vineyard activities, inputs, and yields.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations and environmental standards.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Viticulture, Horticulture, Oenology, or a related agricultural science.
• A minimum of 5 years of practical experience in viticulture, preferably within premium wine production.
• In-depth knowledge of grape vine physiology, soil science, and pest/disease management specific to viticulture.
• Proven experience in managing vineyard staff and operations.
• Strong understanding of irrigation techniques and water management in vineyards.
• Excellent observation skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work physically demanding tasks in outdoor environments across all seasons.
• Familiarity with winery operations and the relationship between vineyard practices and wine quality is highly advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package, reflecting experience and expertise.
• Opportunity to work with world-class grape varietals and production teams.
• Stunning work environment in the beautiful Stellenbosch winelands.
• Access to excellent wines and estate facilities.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Retirement fund.
• Professional development opportunities within the wine industry.