Job Title: Enologist

Department: Production

Reports To: Winemaker

FLSA Status: Exempt

Prepared By: Bryden

Prepared: 8.5.25

Revised By: Acacia

Revised:

JOB SUMMARY

Under the guidance of the Winemaker, the Enologist plays a crucial role in producing Zaca Mesa and TREAD wines. This position is responsible for ensuring wine quality, monitoring fermentation, conducting lab trials, and keeping accurate records in a safe and compliant environment. Additionally, this role supports cellar and bottling operations during peak production. This position guarantees quality and compliance with regulations throughout all winemaking stages and acts as a technical resource for the production and winemaking team.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Perform daily analysis promptly: routine tests including sulfur, TA/pH, volatile acidity, alcohol, turbidity, and enzymatics (RS, ML, YAN).
Monitor primary and secondary fermentations during harvest and report any issues to the winemaker.
Perform microbial plating and microscopy to assess the health of wine and identify spoilage organisms.
Conduct bench trials with fining agents, prepare blend samples, and support experimental wine evaluations.
Perform juice, must, and wine additions (e.g., yeast, nutrients, bacteria, and other additives).
Conduct bottling quality checks to ensure compliance with regulations and maintain product standards.
Notify the winemaker right away if enological standards are not met during cellar or bottling operations.
Calibrate, clean, and maintain all analytical instruments, and standardize solutions.
Manage lab inventory and assist with ordering supplies and chemicals.
Enter precise and prompt data into Excel spreadsheets and the NAV database.
Conduct sanitation audits using ATP swabs, report the results, and work with the cellar team to coordinate corrective actions.
Follow all safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized, and secure laboratory environment.
Develop and implement laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure accurate wine analysis and uphold regulatory compliance.
Assess wines using tastings, analysis, and quality checks.
Manage the procurement and inventory of laboratory and winemaking supplies.
Assist with compliance reporting for wastewater, stormwater, domestic water, and air quality.
Represent Zaca Mesa and TREAD at public events, seminars, and trade engagements.
Other duties assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Strong knowledge of wine chemistry, microbiology, sensory evaluation, and quality control.
Proficiency in winemaking processes such as fermentation, blending, filtration, and sanitation.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Vintegrate/NAV, or other winery management software.
Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
Willing to work long hours during harvest and bottling seasons.
Must be 21 or older with a valid California driver’s license and dependable transportation.

Communication & Critical Thinking

Ability to communicate effectively across departments and deliver clear technical guidance.
Strong analytical thinking with the ability to make timely decisions and adapt under pressure.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree in Enology, Viticulture, Chemistry, or a related science required.
Minimum of 2 years of practical cellar and/or lab experience.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical and environmental demands of this job are representative of those typically encountered while performing essential duties. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Physical Demands:

Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move for prolonged periods.
Frequent use of hands and arms; sensory demands include tasting, smelling, and visual evaluation.
Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. and operate winery equipment safely.
Occasional lifting of up to 100 lbs. with assistance.

Work Environment:

Combination of indoor office and outdoor winery environments.
Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts, high noise levels, chemicals, and fluctuating temperatures.
Compliance with PPE and safety standards is always required.

Acknowledgment:

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work expected in this role. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Duties may be added, removed, or modified at any time. This document does not constitute a contract of employment, and employment is at will.

Signature Employee

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Signature Manager

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