Remote Viticulture & Winemaking Consultant

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious wine estate renowned for its exceptional quality, is seeking a highly experienced and discerning Remote Viticulture & Winemaking Consultant. This advisory role leverages deep expertise to guide vineyard management and cellar operations, focusing on producing world-class wines. You will remotely assess viticultural practices, soil health, grape quality, and winemaking techniques, providing strategic recommendations to optimize every stage of production. This is an unparalleled opportunity for a seasoned professional to apply their extensive knowledge to a renowned estate, influencing the final product from grape to bottle, all while enjoying the flexibility of remote work. Although this role is remote, the operational heart of the client’s interests lies in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, a globally celebrated wine-producing region.

You will collaborate with the vineyard and cellar teams via virtual meetings, detailed reports, and data analysis. We seek an individual with a refined palate, a scientific approach, and a passion for oenology.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert remote consultation on all aspects of viticulture, including vineyard site selection, varietal choices, canopy management, and pest/disease control.
• Advise on optimal harvesting times based on grape maturity, sugar levels, and phenolic ripeness.
• Consult on fermentation processes, yeast selection, temperature control, and oak aging strategies.
• Analyze wine batches for quality, stability, and flavor profile, recommending adjustments as needed.
• Assist in troubleshooting winemaking challenges and developing solutions to improve wine quality.
• Review and recommend improvements for cellar hygiene and equipment maintenance.
• Stay updated on global viticultural and oenological trends and innovations.
• Collaborate remotely with the estate's viticulturist and winemaker to ensure seamless integration of recommendations.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations outlining findings, recommendations, and strategic plans.
• Assist in the development of new wine products and styles.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Viticulture, Oenology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience in viticulture and winemaking at a senior level.
• Demonstrated success in producing award-winning wines.
• In-depth knowledge of terroir, grape varietals, and their impact on wine style.
• Strong understanding of fermentation science, yeast biology, and wine chemistry.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage remote client relationships effectively.
• Familiarity with the unique characteristics of Stellenbosch terroir and its esteemed varietals.
• Proficiency in using data analysis tools and remote communication platforms.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive consultancy fee, commensurate with extensive experience and proven expertise. This is a contract position offering significant flexibility. Opportunities to contribute to a world-renowned wine estate and enhance your professional portfolio are substantial. You will be working with a team dedicated to excellence in winemaking.