Winemaker (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

  Kings River Winery (http://www.kingsriverwinery.com)

  Sanger, California

Position Overview
 

Kings River Winery is a family owned winery on 40-acres of vineyards. The Winemaker is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the wine production process. The position is full time. This includes strategic direction as well as consulting on day-to-day operations. As a part of the team in a small and growing business, this is a key role in an exciting industry.

Responsibilities
·Set and implement direction on the processing of the grapes, production of wine, storage of product and bottling of product

·Set production schedules in line with the capabilities of the facility and the needs of the market

·Supervise the crush, pressing, settling and all other phases of juice treatment and fermentation of the must

·Prepare bottling plans for each wine

·Test wines for quality and commercial potential

·Manage inventory levels of supplies and materials used in the production of wine along with the Cellar Master

·Maintain records as required for the purpose of meeting government and corporate requirements

·Work collaboratively with farm manager and  cellar master to manage incoming fruit and during harvest

·Monitor the condition of all wines in an effort to prevent spoilage

·Assist in development of the product mix and grape needs for coming season

·Work with sales to project the desired product mix based on the past year’s sales

·Lead public and private tours when needed

·Write wine descriptions

Personnel Management and Leadership Responsibilities

·Work as part of leadership team to help set company direction

·Continually look to innovate winemaking and production and adapt to changing market conditions

·Advise on equipment purchases

·Advise on laboratory set-up and supply needs

·Mentor Cellar Master and Student Interns

·Help recruit, hire and train cellar personnel

Desired Qualifications

·Bachelor of Science or equivalent experience in chemistry, enology, viticulture or related field

·Minimum three years professional winery experience including all aspects of harvest, fermentation and cellar work, and winemaking analysis

·Strong team work abilities to work with existing team. Open minded and willing to learn and adapt

·Knowledge of grapes, growing regions

·Knowledge of local production and marketing regulations

·Excellent written and verbal communication skills

·Ability to physically lift 40 or more pounds and work with various chemicals and in various temperatures. Available to work a varied schedule during harvest season and as needed

Compensation

Compensation will be based on experience.

 

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