Viticulturist - Wine Estate Management

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni, Gauteng seeks an experienced Viticulturist to oversee vineyard operations, from soil management to canopy, pest control and harvest. You will lead vineyard staff and collaborate with the winemaker to ensure top-quality grapes for winemaking.

The ideal candidate holds a degree in viticulture or related field, has at least five years in cool-climate viticulture, and is willing to relocate to or reside in Benoni.

Qualifications

• Degree in viticulture or related field.
• Minimum 5 years viticulture experience.
• Knowledge of grape varietals, soils, and climate impacts on wine quality.
• Experience with pest and disease management in vineyards.
• Familiar with vineyard machinery and irrigation systems.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Willingness to reside in Benoni, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Develop vineyard management plans to optimize quality and yield.
• Manage soil health, fertilization, and irrigation for varietals.
• Implement pest, disease, and weed control with sustainable practices.
• Oversee canopy management: pruning, shoot thinning, leaf removal.
• Monitor grape development and harvest timing.
• Supervise and train vineyard workers.
• Maintain records of vineyard activities and inputs.
• Collaborate with winemaker to meet winemaking requirements.
• Stay updated on viticulture research and technology.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Wine knowledge

Education

Degree in Viticulture / Horticulture / Agronomy

Tools

Vineyard machinery

Irrigation systems

Job description

About the Role

A prestigious wine estate in the heart of the Benoni, Gauteng wine-growing region is seeking an experienced and passionate Viticulturist to oversee its vineyard operations. This key role involves managing all aspects of grape cultivation, from vineyard design and soil management to canopy management, pest control, and harvesting. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of viticulture science, a proven ability to produce high-quality grapes suitable for winemaking, and strong leadership skills to manage vineyard staff. You will be instrumental in maintaining and enhancing the reputation of the estate for producing exceptional wines. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of viticulture in Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement vineyard management plans to optimize grape quality and yield.
• Manage soil health, fertilization programs, and irrigation systems tailored to specific grape varietals.
• Implement effective pest, disease, and weed control strategies, prioritizing sustainable practices.
• Oversee canopy management techniques, including pruning, shoot thinning, and leaf removal.
• Monitor grape development and determine optimal harvest timing.
• Supervise and train vineyard workers, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
• Maintain detailed records of vineyard activities, input usage, and crop performance.
• Collaborate with the winemaker to ensure grape quality meets winemaking requirements.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in viticulture research and technology.

Requirements

• Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in viticulture, with a strong focus on cool-climate or similar growing conditions.
• In-depth knowledge of grape varietal characteristics, soil types, and climate impacts on wine quality.
• Proven experience in pest and disease management in vineyards.
• Familiarity with vineyard machinery and irrigation systems.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• A passion for wine and an understanding of the winemaking process is highly desirable.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to the Benoni, Gauteng area.

Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and retirement plan options. Opportunities for professional development, including industry conferences and further training, are available. Join a renowned wine estate dedicated to excellence in grape growing and winemaking within the scenic Gauteng region.