Overview:
We are seeking a skilled, hands-on Winemaker to lead all wine production and oversee vineyard coordination from bud break through bottling. This position is responsible for crafting premium estate-grown wines and guiding the entire winemaking process, with an emphasis on Pinot Noir and other varietals suited to the Willamette Valley. The ideal candidate will demonstrate both technical mastery and creative vision, and be excited to engage directly with vineyard teams, cellar staff, and guests. No consulting or private labels are permitted due to the role's strategic focus and scope.
About Us:
Located just 40 miles south from Portland at the gateway of Oregon wine country, our 45-acre estate produces wines that reflect the land’s natural expression. We are a quality-driven, community-oriented winery with an elevated hospitality experience and a strong connection to our local and regional customers.
Compensation: $80,000.00- $100,000.00 salary, DOE
Benefits Per Company Plan Details
- Medical
- 401k Matching Plan
- 3 Weeks of PTO
- 2 paid Holidays (Thanksgiving + Christmas)
*The terms and conditions associated with each Benefit are outlined in the Associate Handbook, additional documentation provided by Human Resources, or within the policies of the carriers providing the benefits*
Key Responsibilities:
Winemaking (Primary Focus)
- Lead all winemaking operations from harvest logistics and crush pad oversight through fermentation, aging, blending, stabilization, and bottling.
- Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for cleanliness, safety, and production best practices.
- Perform and oversee routine and advanced lab analyses (Brix, pH, TA, SO₂, VA, microbial stability) and use results to inform decisions.
- Manage wine inventory and maintain accurate records for TTB compliance, bonded transfers, and traceability.
- Evaluate and source bulk wine or blending components as needed to support quality and sales goals.
- Order and maintain supply inventories, including packaging (glass, corks, capsules), additives, and fermentation inputs.
- Maintain and schedule service for winery equipment; uphold OSHA and workplace safety standards.
- Use winemaking software (e.g., Vintrace, WMDB) for tracking production, inventory, and compliance.
Vineyard & Production Planning:
- Work with vineyard management to evaluate crop yield, fruit quality, and harvest timing to align with stylistic goals.
- Participate in long-term vineyard planning and seasonal forecasting; estimate tonnage and fermentation space.
- Coordinate with vineyard partners and corporate team for grape contracts and sourcing decisions.
Hospitality & Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Collaborate with Tasting Room, Wine Club, and Marketing teams to plan 3-year production and barrel programs.
- Assist with wine education, development, staff training, and customer questions related to winemaking and viticulture.
- Lead tours and educational tastings for VIPs and industry visitors; support brand storytelling through technical depth.
- Provide feedback and input on labeling, packaging design, and product presentation.
Team Management:
- Supervise cellar staff and interns (2–3 during harvest); lead training and task delegation across all phases of production.
- Maintain a collaborative, accountable, and quality-driven cellar culture.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Enology, Viticulture, Fermentation Science, or related field.
- Minimum 5 years of experience as a Winemaker plus 3 years as an Assistant Winemaker.
- At least 3 harvests of high-end Pinot Noir, preferably in Oregon; experience in Burgundy a strong plus.
- Proven ability to oversee small-lot and estate-driven production from vine to bottle.
- Strong sensory evaluation skills and lab proficiency (microbial, chemical).
- Mastery of winery management software (Vintrace, Winemaker Database, or equivalent).
- Solid understanding of sustainability and environmental best practices in wine production.
- Experience working collaboratively with marketing and direct-to-consumer teams.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt in a fast-paced harvest environment.
- International harvest experience and/or basic Spanish is a plus.
To Apply:
- Please submit a resume and cover letter detailing your winemaking philosophy, experience managing vineyard-winery integration, and examples of wines you’ve produced from start to finish
