Assistant Winemaker

Main duties:

1. Grape sampling and processing

• Assisting the winemaker with sampling of the grapes in various vineyard blocks.
• Once sample is processed the following analyses are done, °B, pH, and TA. This enables the winemaker to make an informed decision on when to pick.
• Evaluation of grapes once arrived at cellar.
• Weighing of grapes, together with grape and juice grading

2. Harvest Prep

• Assisting winemaker in renting the additional equipment for harvest, such as refrigerated reefer and forklift
• Make sure that the harvest equipment is serviced and in good condition.
• Arranging extra security during the night
• Make sure that all the required chemicals are ordered and delivered.

3. Cellar Processes/Activities

During harvest time:

• In charge of crushing and destemming. Setting the machine per instructed by winemaker, to obtain best quality
• Additions at crushing
• Operating the Willmes press and sets programs per instructed by Winemaker
• Analysing juice after pressing for °B, pH, TA and sulphur
• Do necessary adjustments as per instructed by Winemaker.
• Adding yeast, plus necessary addition to juice after settling.
• Monitoring of fermentation twice per day. In the morning and afternoon.
• Discussion with winemaker, regarding fermentation temperature and adjust as instructed.
• Be active on the floor and make sure that the cellar workers are fulfilling their cellar duties.

After harvest time:

• Hand out cellar work instruction sheets and ensure that work is done to winemakers’ expectation.
• Assisting winemaker with blends
• Assisting with preparations of wines before bottling
• Testing CO2 and DO levels on wine prior to bottling
• Adjustment of CO2 and DO levels to required levels.
• Ensuring that bottling meets quality check systems.

4. Record keeping

During harvest time:

• Daily additions recorded
• Daily recording of fermentations
• Harvest file/record keeping updated daily
• Chemical stock take – daily
• Monthly chemical stock take
• Purchase and receipts of various items required for the cellar and surroundings.
• Filing of PO packs

During and after bottling:

• Receive dry goods and sends receipts through to procurement
• Recording QMS during bottling
• Assigning Application number to bottlings
• Submissions of bottling – Wine Online
• BG5 application for any bottled stock moved to other premises.

Throughout the year

• General filing and record keeping
• SOP’s updated and recorded
• Complete cellar worker timesheets and sent to HR
• Monthly chemical stock-take and capture on SAGE
• Records servicing and repairs on various cellar equipment

Qualifications & Experience:

• Elsenburg Diploma or Degree in Oenology and Viticulture at the University of Stellenbosch
• Minimum 2 years cellar experience in similar environment

Skills & Competencies:

• Knowledge of Grape and wine process
• Knowledge of wine making and record keeping
• Diligent work attitude
• Analytical / Logical Thinker
• Attention to detail
• Accurate Record Keeping
• Excellent report writing and communication skills
• Problem Solving Skills
• Computer skills medium to advance Excel

To apply, submit a detailed CV and qualifications to:  j.a.z.recruitment.