Nestled in the stunning Hemel-en-Aarde Valley near Hermanus, La Vierge Wines is celebrated for its elegant cool-climate wines, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, produced from vineyards on the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge. Our modern tasting room and restaurant offer visitors breathtaking views, exceptional tastings, and food pairings that highlight the unique terroir of this premier wine region. We are seeking a passionate and experienced Tasting Room Manager to take primary responsibility for all wine-related operations in the tasting room. Reporting to the general manager and working closely with the existing Front of House Manager (who oversees the restaurant and overall front-of-house), this role focuses on delivering outstanding wine tastings, driving sales, and creating memorable guest experiences centred around our wines, while providing support across front-of-house activities as needed.
Location: Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Hermanus, South Africa
Type: Full-time
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee all wine tasting operations, including designing and conducting engaging tastings, educating guests on our wine portfolio, production methods, and the distinctive Hemel-en-Aarde terroir.
- Lead, recruit, train, schedule, supervise, and develop tasting room staff, with a strong emphasis on wine knowledge, sales techniques, and exceptional service.
- Drive direct-to-consumer wine sales by converting visitors into buyers, promoting Wine Club memberships, and achieving sales targets through tastings, tours, and events.
- Manage wine inventory, stock levels, and coordination with the cellar team; oversee POS systems, cash handling, and related administration.
- Handle group bookings, VIP experiences, tours, and external events focused on wine; collaborate with tourism partners and the restaurant team for seamless integration.
- Collect customer feedback, resolve queries, and ensure consistently high standards of presentation, cleanliness, and compliance.
- Assist the Front of House Manager with broader operations, staff liaison, and peak-season support as required.
- Contribute to sales strategies, social media content, and reporting on tasting room performance.
This role will require wok over weekends, public holidays and occasional after hours work.
Requirements
- Minimum 3-5 years' experience in tasting room or hospitality management, with proven wine industry exposure.
- Strong background in customer service, retail sales, staff leadership, and event coordination.
- Extensive wine knowledge, ideally with WSET Level 2 (or higher) or equivalent; Cape Wine Academy certification advantageous.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills; ability to engage diverse groups with a positive, friendly demeanour.
- Proficiency in POS and inventory systems, basic financial management, and MS Office.
- Bilingual in English and Afrikaans (additional languages a plus).
- Valid driver's license, own reliable transport, and ability to work long hours on feet.
- Flexibility for weekends, public holidays, and evenings; professional appearance.
On offer is a competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
If you are deeply passionate about wine, thrive on creating exceptional guest experiences, and excel in a collaborative environment, we'd love to hear from you.
Please send your CV and a motivation letter to waynev@lavierge.co.za with the subject line "Tasting Room Manager Application".