Assistant Winemaker (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

  Westwood Estate Wines

  Sonoma, California

Westwood Estate Winery is a small family owned winery based in Sonoma Valley California. The 23 acre estate vineyard is located in the northern throat of the Sonoma Valley in the Annadel Gap and is planted to nine clones of Pinot Noir, Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Counoise, Tannat, Roussanne and Viognier. We currently farm with biodynamic practices, with certification imminent, to create 4000 cases of ultra premium cool climate Burgundian and Rhone varieties ranging from single clone pinot bottlings to proprietal red blends. We are currently seeking a self motivated, highly organized individual who is looking for the next step up in their career. Initially this position will encompass winery and lab operations and management, with some duties on the viticultural side. As Westwood is a small operation, the position will grow into an assistant vineyard manager role to aid with the biodynamic farming and protocols we undertake to ensure the highest quality of fruit is grown. 

Responsibilities

•  Schedule and coordinate all production and laboratory activities based on required winemaking parameters
•  Train and supervise all production employees (including harvest interns), and actively monitor performance and achievement
•  Coordinate all additions to juice and wine based on analytical results and/or desired winemaking goals
•  Coordinate labor and shipping associated with all cellar activities, including bottling (dry goods in/bottled goods out), harvest and bulk wine sales
•  Develop and maintain inventories of cellar supplies, including juice and wine additives, bottling dry goods, sanitation and cleaning chemicals, etc.
•  Understand operating principles and be capable of operation of all winery production and laboratory equipment, including but not limited to forklift, harvest equipment, pumps and barrels. As needed, schedule preventative and other maintenance on equipment to prevent inefficiencies and failures wherever possible
•  Guarantee accurate and timely cellar records with Innovint and Excel platforms
•  Ensure all compliance-oriented wine specifications meet the full legal obligations according to the TTB and ABC, including but not limited to legality of label information, fill heights, record keeping, etc.
•  Schedule, execute and participate in tasting panels for quality assessment and wine blends and prepares sensory trials
•  Interacting with guests in tasting room and at events plus be available for some travel and market work to enhance the brand
•  Minor repairs and maintenance to equipment and facility
•  Maintain an active awareness of industry trends, developments, education and research activities
•  Write cellar work orders and activities as needed
•  Act as winery spokesperson, as needed, with public, trade and press
•  Act as backup or support, when necessary, for all members of the Westwood Winery team
•  Staffing: organize hiring and supervision of temporary staffing (bottling and harvest) under strict guidelines and budgetary restrictions


Skills:

•  Supervisory experience, highly organized, clear and effective communicator
•  Strong laboratory and cellar skills
•  Familiarity with vineyards and grape growing
•  Facility maintenance experience
•  Strong forklift skills 
•  Experience with Innovint or related wine tracking software and Excel


The successful candidate must have a strong work ethic, impeccable organizational skills, a positive attitude, inner drive, flexibility and be an excellent communicator with fellow team members. As we have a small team, the candidate must be ready and willing to perform a wide array of duties in support of Westwood; must have excellent self motivation and will lead from the front. The successful candidate will be very hands on with a strong desire to learn and help develop the Westwood wine program and brand.

This position offers an incredibly unique opportunity to join a hardworking, tight-knit production and winegrowing team creating the highest quality, small batch wines. Must have a B.S.in Enology, Winemaking, or related field and a minimum of three years winery and supervisory experience. They must have a valid driver's license and clean driving record, be able to lift and move up to 50 pounds and climb ladders and stairs. Extended hours are required during peak times of year, often occurring in a cold and wet environment. Fluency in English is required. Must be legally allowed to work in the US with citizenship or green card.

How To Apply

Salary considerations commensurate with experience.

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