Our client, a leading winery in Stellenbosch, is seeking a skilled Winemaker Assistant to join their team. The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree or diploma in Winemaking, a minimum of five years’ experience in a similar environment, and strong knowledge of viticulture and winemaking processes. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Sage, excellent wine tasting and record-keeping skills, as well as a valid driver’s license, are essential. This role is primarily administrative, with a strong focus on preparing and coordinating wine samples for clients and would suit a qualified winemaker who no longer wishes to be involved in the production side of winemaking but is looking to apply their expertise in a more administrative and client-focused capacity. We are looking for someone who is self-motivated, target-driven, diligent, and has outstanding interpersonal and communication skills.

A recent professional profile photo is to accompany your application
EMPLOYMENT TYPE    :           Permanent
SECTOR                          :           Production
BASIC SALARY              :           Market related
START DATE                  :           A.S.A.P

REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum of five years’ winemaking experience in a similar environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with Sage accounting software.
• Grade 12 or equivalent qualification.
• Relevant degree or diploma in Winemaking.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Must show initiative, be target-driven, and self-motivated.
• Diligent work ethic and strong attention to detail.
• Solid knowledge of viticulture, wine, and winemaking processes.
• Excellent record-keeping skills.
• Exceptional wine tasting skills.
• Valid driver’s license.

 
DUTIES:
 
Sampling, Quality & Tasting Processes:

• Blend new wines for new products or contracts in collaboration with the sales team; liaise directly with clients and the market when required.
• Prepare all samples for tastings, wine shows, new business opportunities, new vintage approval, third-party sample/style approval, and analysis approval.
• Ensure wine samples sent for bulk or bottle approval meet required specifications.
• Collaborate with the Winemaker and Production Manager to sign off on the sensorial quality of all bulk wine and bottled products prior to loading/filling, and monitor post-production sensorial quality.
• Prepare and submit entries for prominent wine competitions and maintain accurate records of all entries and accolades received.
• Request, schedule, taste, and evaluate producer stock monthly (services) and quarterly (contracted).
• Organize, manage, and capture data for internal comparative tastings, production tastings, and allocation tastings.
• Taste and evaluate all retention samples after 12 months.

 
Administration & Record Keeping:

• Set up SAGE wine specifications based on approved sample analyses and NPI’s.
• Establish SAGE wine specifications for all third-party wines using information from BRSs.
• Set up SAGE wine specifications for all non-South African wines and international bottling sites.
• Prepare all technical (Fische) sheets and techniques as required.
• Maintain accurate and clear records of all signed-off wines, tastings, and feedback received.
• Capture and update blending records, including components used and styles submitted and approved.

 
Quality Management Systems (QMS):

• Adhere to QMS standards and procedures.
• Follow QMS protocols as described in procedures.
• Comply with GMP protocols.
• Participate in various quality seminars as required.

 
Housekeeping, Health & Safety:

• Follow the company’s protective clothing policy.
• Adhere to all company and statutory Health & Safety policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with the safety representative to ensure safe work practices.
• Ensure all employer-provided equipment and tools are safe and properly maintained.
• Maintain housekeeping standards, ensuring all areas of responsibility are clean, neat, and organized.

 
HOURS:

• Monday to Friday: 08:00 – 17:00

Should you meet all the requirements, apply on our website at www.statusstaffing.com today.
Should you not hear back from us within 10 working days, please consider your application as unsuccessful.  We will retain your credentials for future similar roles.