Head Winemaker and Vineyard Manager for Minnesota (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

  Rolling Forks Vineyards

  Glenwood, Minnesota

Rolling Forks Vineyards is a family-owned and operated, 3,000 case winery, located in Glenwood MN. Established in 2020, we know how to pivot and make the best of every situation, tackle challenges head-on, and revel in opportunities for growth and development to improve our culture, wine quality, and sustainable practices. We are looking for a Head Winemaker and Vineyard Manager to join our team. This unique opportunity blends the roles of viticulture and vinification, inviting an individual who is passionate about crafting distinctive wines that highlight our unique terroir in the glacial hills of Minnesota.

About Our Open Role...
We seek a motivated and enthusiastic individual to lead our winemaking and vineyard team. This person will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of wine production from harvest to bottling. You will be able to work with Minnesota hybrid grape varieties sourced from esteemed vineyards in Pope County Minnesota, at one of the newest production facilities in our state.

Responsibilities:
•  Vineyard Oversight: Lead all aspects of vineyard management, including but not limited to soil management, planting strategies, vine training, pruning, pest and disease control, and harvest operations. Your expertise will directly influence the quality and character of our grapes going into wine production. Reports regular updates of harvest forecasts, schedule, and manpower needs, as well as equipment operation and maintenance as needed.
•  Winemaking Excellence: Take charge of the winemaking process from grape selection through to bottling, with a keen eye for detail on fermentation practices, aging, blending, and quality control. You'll have the freedom to express creativity in developing wine profiles that resonate with our brand and clientele. Responsibilities include but are not limited to cleaning, fermenting, filtration, bottling, variety packing, kegging, sampling, interacting with customers, and lab work.
•  Team Leadership: Build, mentor, and lead a dedicated team of vineyard and winery staff, promoting a culture of passion, precision, and innovation. Your leadership will foster an environment of continuous learning and excellence.
•  Quality and Innovation: Implement rigorous quality control measures and innovative techniques in both vineyard management and winemaking processes. We're looking for someone who is not only committed to quality but also to exploring new methods and technologies that can enhance our products.
•  Market Awareness: Collaborate with the marketing and sales teams to align our wine production with market trends and consumer preferences, ensuring our wines meet and exceed expectations. You will also represent and promote the public image of Rolling Forks Vineyards wines with active participation in community events and activities, seminars, tours, virtual tastings, and wine education.
•  Company Pride: Work together with our Tasting Room staff to keep the building running efficiently. This person will assist with minor repairs and snow removal from time-to-time, is accountable and dependable and appreciates that, in a small business environment, everyone pitches in where needed to ensure goals are met.

About You...
Words that people use to describe you include, initiative-taking, hard-working, honest, leader, enjoyable to be around, detail oriented, physically capable, and passionate. You perform well under pressure while maintaining a cheerful outlook. You are a collaborator who motivates and empowers others to achieve maximum productivity and organizational success. You are enthusiastic about producing exceptional site-driven wines reflecting our Minnesota roots.

Qualifications:
Preferred but not required:
•  Degree in Viticulture, Enology, or related field.
•  At least 3 years of hands-on experience in vineyard management and winemaking, with a track record of producing high-quality wines.
•  Strong knowledge of production and laboratory equipment and operations
•  Deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities of winemaking in the Midwest.
•  Innovative mindset, with a willingness to experiment and adapt to the evolving wine industry.
•  Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
•  Ability to work solo, as well as with a team.
•  A strong commitment to sustainable agriculture and winemaking practices.
•  Valid Driver’s License
•  Has or will obtain a pesticide applicator certificate issued by the State of MN.
•  Forklift Certified or willingness to obtain

This is a full-time position located in the beautiful state of Minnesota, offering a competitive salary, benefits, and the chance to be part of a growing winery that takes pride in its local roots and commitment to excellence. If you have a deep passion for winemaking, a love for Minnesota heritage, and a drive to create wines that tell the story of their origin, we want to hear from you.

Location: Rolling Forks Vineyards, Glenwood, MN

We are an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of background. Join us in crafting exceptional Minnesota wines that celebrate our unique terroir and community.

Job Type: Full-time
Pay based on experience
Benefits:
•  SIMPLE IRA
•  SIMPLE IRA matching
•  Flexible schedule
•  Health insurance
•  On-the-job training
•  Paid sick time
•  Paid time off
•  Employee Disc
•  Professional development assistance
Schedule:
•  Monday to Friday - 8 hour shift - addn'l hours as necessary during peak times + some wknd days as needed

•  Committed to working extended hours and weekends as needed
Ability to Relocate:
•  Glenwood, MN: Relocate (Required)
Work Location: In person

How To Apply

Please send your resume, cover letter, and any relevant portfolio of your wines (including tasting notes and awards). Be part of our journey to highlight Minnesota's winemaking potential.

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