Reference: AG017
Location: Stellenbosch
Remuneration will be competitive and negotiable.
The candidate must either be a South African citizen or possess valid legal documentation authorising them to work in South Africa. All references must be contactable. The candidate must have a valid driver's license.
JOB DESCRIPTION – Head Winemaker (AG017)
Position Summary:
A prestigious, heritage-rich wine estate in Stellenbosch is seeking an exceptional Head Winemaker with the skill, vision, and leadership to craft world-class wines from some of the Cape's most distinctive terroir. This is a rare opportunity for a highly accomplished and culturally grounded winemaker to shape the future of an iconic estate with immense potential.
The successful candidate will lead all winemaking operations from vineyard to bottle, championing quality, innovation, and stylistic excellence while preserving the estate's legacy and identity.
Key Responsibilities:
The candidate must be able to –
Oversee the whole winemaking process, from grape selection to final bottling.
Work closely with vineyard operations to ensure optimal quality and terroir expression.
Make strategic decisions on harvest timing, fermentation management, maturation, and blending.
Manage and mentor the cellar and production teams.
Uphold the highest standards of quality control, hygiene, and compliance.
Drive stylistic development that aligns with the estate's premium positioning.
Collaborate with management on long-term wine strategy, portfolio development, and brand direction.
Manage budgets, stock, production planning, and reporting.
Represent the estate with professionalism at industry events, tastings, and trade engagements when required.
Minimum Requirements:
Degree or diploma in Oenology/Viticulture or a related discipline.
Minimum of 7 years of winemaking experience, with at least 3 years in a senior/head role.
Proven track record of producing premium or ultra-premium wines.
Deep understanding of Stellenbosch terroir (or similar premium wine regions).
Strong leadership, communication, and team development skills.
Commitment to quality, precision, and continuous improvement.
Ability to balance tradition with thoughtful innovation.
Valid driver's licence.
Skills & Attributes:
Exceptional palate and blending ability.
Hands-on, meticulous, and highly organised.Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills.Respectful leadership approach and excellent interpersonal skills.
Cultural sensitivity and alignment within a heritage environment.
Passion for crafting wines of distinction that express site and story.
Application Details:
The application deadline has been extended to 27 February 2026. If you have already applied, it does not mean you are not shortlisted. Our client will meticulously review all the CVs before shortlisting.
Please email your CV (MS Word format), a recent photograph, and a cover letter to CV@HeritageMG.co.za with the reference AG017 in the subject line. If you do not hear back from us within two weeks, your application has been unsuccessful.
This position offers a unique opportunity for an ambitious winemaker to harness exceptional terroir and help define the next chapter of a prominent Stellenbosch estate.