Thursday, 1 October, 2026
The Sadie Family Wines
Swartland 
The Sadie Family Wines is located on the Paardeberg near Malmesbury in the Swartland wine region. We are looking for a Cellar Assistant to join our winemaking team from 5 January 2027.
The successful candidate will work closely with the winemaking team and cellar staff across all aspects of cellar operations, harvest and, during the off-season, vineyard work. This is a long-term position, with a 3-month probationary period and the possibility of permanent employment based on performance and suitability for the role.
Main Responsibilities
- Teamwork & Work Orders: Work closely with the winemakers and cellar hands to carry out daily cellar work and follow work orders efficiently and accurately.
- Quality Control: Monitor fermentations, collect and record data, and maintain accurate production records using our winemaking software.
- Harvest & Cellar Operations: Assist with grape processing, délestage, cellar movements, fermentation monitoring and general cellar operations.
- Cellar Hygiene: Maintain consistently high standards of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the cellar and ensure equipment is properly cleaned and maintained.
- Attention to Detail: Follow winemaking protocols and instructions carefully, while identifying and communicating any issues with the winemaking team.
- Off-Season: Assist with vineyard work and other winery-related tasks as required.
Candidate Profile
The successful candidate should be:
- Assertive, driven and detail-oriented.
- Able to follow directions precisely and execute tasks reliably.
- Comfortable working in a demanding, fast-paced environment as well as staying busy in slower periods.
- Resilient and able to remain receptive to feedback during time-sensitive or high-pressure periods.
- Able to maintain professional, work-focused communication.
- A team player who is willing to get involved in all aspects of cellar work and contribute positively to the wider team.
- Willing to take responsibility, learn, and develop within the role.
Prerequisites
- South African citizen, 28 years old or younger.
- A degree or qualification in a related field, such as Oenology, Viticulture, or a similar discipline.
- Previous cellar or winemaking experience will be advantageous.
- Willingness and ability to work flexible hours, including extended hours during harvest.
- Reliable to own transport and a valid driver's license.
- Forklift training and a valid forklift license.
What We Offer
- Market-related salary.
- A long-term opportunity to develop within a professional winemaking environment.
- Hands-on training to further develop your winemaking skills.
- Exposure to all stages of cellar operations, from harvest through to bottling.
- The opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of fine wine and its place within the global wine industry.
- Imparting knowledge, not just instruction.
Applications
Please read through this document carefully. If you believe you are a suitable candidate for the position, please send your application to cellar@thesadiefamily.com.
Application closing date: 14 October 2026
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard from us by 17 October 2026, please consider your application unsuccessful.