We have an exciting opportunity for a Winemaker to join our team.
The purpose of the Winemaker role is to lead the entire winemaking process from harvest planning through to final blending, ensuring the production of high-quality wines that reflect the estate's style and terroir while meeting production targets and quality standards.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Winemaking:
- Direct all aspects of wine production from grape reception to bottling
- Determine optimal harvest timing in coordination with viticulturist
- Manage fermentation processes and monitor wine development
- Develop and execute blending strategies
- Oversee quality control throughout production
- Maintain detailed records of all winemaking processes
- Ensure compliance with Wine of Origin scheme requirements
- Conduct regular tastings and quality assessments
- Manage barrel program and cellar operations
Technical Management:
- Monitor and maintain wine chemistry through analysis
- Ensure proper sanitation protocols
- Oversee laboratory operations and testing
- Implement and maintain HACCP and food safety programs
- Maintain rigorous quality and food safety standards, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and continuously improve processes to consistently deliver safe, high-quality products
- Manage wine movements and stock control
- Supervise bottling operations
- Maintain cellar equipment and infrastructure
Personnel Management:
- Lead and develop cellar team
- Train staff in winemaking procedures and safety protocols
- Schedule labour resources according to production demands
- Manage relationships with consultants and suppliers
Administrative Duties:
- Prepare production reports and forecasts
- Manage cellar budget and costs
- Ensure compliance with industry regulations
- Maintain required documentation and certificates
- Contribute to marketing efforts and wine presentations
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's degree in Oenology/Viticulture or a related field
- Minimum 10 years winemaking experience
- Proven track record of Cap Classique production as well as still white and red wines.
- Strong understanding of wine chemistry and analysis
- Experience with different winemaking styles and techniques to produce both quality and commercial wine
- Valid driver's license
- Proficiency in English and Afrikaans
- Exceptional palate and blending ability
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent leadership and communication abilities
- Good organizational and planning skills
- Computer literacy including cellar management software
- Proficient in Ezywine, budgeting, SAWIS Administration
- Understanding of wine market trends
Please submit written applications for the attention of Lesley Rose (Lesley.Rose@Iwayini.co.za)
CLOSING DATE: 29 April 2026