Iwayini Company has a vacancy for a Junior Winemaker to be based at Villiera Wines in Stellenbosch.
The Junior Winemaker will support the Head Winemaker in all aspects of wine production while taking direct responsibility for specific cellar operations and quality control procedures.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Winemaking Operations
- Assist in all aspects of wine production from grape reception through to bottling
- Support harvest operations including grape sampling, sorting, and processing
- Monitor fermentation processes and conduct regular quality checks
- Assist with blending trials and sensory evaluations
- Maintain detailed production records and cellar logs
- Support barrel management including racking, topping, and cleaning programs
Laboratory and Quality Control
- Conduct routine laboratory analyses including Brix, pH, TA, and SO2 testing
- Assist with microbiological monitoring and wine stability testing
- Support quality assurance protocols throughout the winemaking process
- Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure accurate record-keeping
- Maintain rigorous quality and food safety standards, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and continuously improve processes to consistently deliver safe, high-quality products
Cellar Management
- Assist with tank cleaning and sanitation procedures
- Support equipment maintenance and cellar operations
- Help coordinate bottling runs and packaging operations
- Maintain inventory tracking for wines, additives, and supplies
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with the Winemaker to execute production plans
- Coordinate with vineyard team on harvest timing and grape quality
- Assist with visitor tastings and cellar door activities when required
- Support compliance with wine industry regulations and certification requirement
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's degree in Viticulture and Oenology, Food Science, Chemistry, or related field
- Alternatively, relevant diploma with demonstrated practical experience
- 1-3 years of winemaking experience preferred
- Harvest experience in a commercial winery environment
- Familiarity with South African wine industry practices
- Experience with premium wine production
- Knowledge of Cape Winelands terroir and varietals
- Wine judging or sensory evaluation training
- Experience with organic or sustainable winemaking practices
ESSENTIAL SKILLS
- Understanding of winemaking processes and techniques
- Basic laboratory skills and analytical testing
- Knowledge of wine chemistry and microbiology fundamentals
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and cellar management software
- Strong attention to detail and quality focus
- Physical stamina for harvest periods and cellar work
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Passion for wine and continuous learning
- Flexibility to work varied hours during harvest season
- Problem-solving mindset and adaptability
Applications are to be submitted in writing for the attention of Lesley Rose (Lesley@RoseLRC.com)
CLOSING DATE: Wednesday, 27 August 2025 – No late applications will be accepted.