Winemaker Position - PaardenKloof Estate

A unique opportunity to join one of South Africa's premium wine estates!

Paardenkloof Estate is seeking an experienced and passionate Winemaker to join our team in a permanent capacity at our newly built 300-ton modern winery. This role is integral to producing premium wines that reflect the unique character of the estate and its terroir.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate all harvest activities.
• Manage the complete winemaking process from grape to bottle.
• Supervision of certain viticultural practices throughout the year.
• Maintain exceptional wine quality and consistency.
• Oversee blending, maturation and stabilisation of wines.
• Manage SAWIS, IPW, administration, regulatory compliance, inspections and audits.
• Manage accurate production records.
• Manage inventory, stock control, procurement and production consumables.
• Lead, train and mentor cellar staff.
• Assist with the recruitment, selection and onboarding of new staff members.
• Oversee bottling quality control and routine laboratory analysis.
• Manage all cellar operations, uncompromised hygiene and maintenance of cellar infrastructure.
• Support wine tastings, sales, promotional activities and key contracts.

Minimum Requirements

• Degree or Diploma in Viticulture and Oenology.
• Minimum 2 years' experience working in a similar Winemaker role, or 4 years as Assistant Winemaker.
• Proven practical experience in a commercial winery.
• Extensive knowledge of and passion for vineyards and terroir.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to perform well in both team context and individually.
• Sound experience of quality control.
• Experience with WineMS, MS Office and SAWIS administration.
• Knowledge of IPW, WIETA and related standards.
• Fluent in English.
• Valid driver's licence.
• Willingness to work hours as per wine industry and business requirements.

Employment Equity

Preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates from previously disadvantaged groups in accordance with the company's Employment Equity objectives.

Application Details

Position: Winemaker at PaardenKloof Estate

Location: Bot River, Walker Bay

Starting Date: To be discussed

Remuneration: Market-related, based on experience

Closing Date: 25 September
Send your CV and short motivation letter to: hr@paardenkloof.co.za

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you don't hear from us within two weeks of the closing date, please assume that your application was unsuccessful.