Harvest Intern (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

Job Description:

Harvest Intern – Southwest Mountains Vineyards
Job Description
June 2023

Southwest Mountains Vineyards is a first-generation family-owned winery seeking a seasonal 2023 Harvest Intern for our annual 10,000+ case winemaking operation. This position gives the ideal candidate the ability to assist our Winemakers in producing finely crafted, premium estate grown vinifera wines being planned for our wine portfolio. Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Viognier, Petit Manseng and Gruner have been planted since 2016 and total more than 80 acres on three estate properties. A brand-new 19,750 sq. ft. state of the art production facility will be completed Summer 2023 and a new world class 12,500 sq. ft. Tasting Room will also be located on the property and open to the public in the Fall of 2023.

Downtown Charlottesville is located 15 minutes from the winery. There is an Amtrak Station allowing easy access to Washington DC and New York City. Charlottesville Airport is a 25-minute drive and Dulles International Airport is roughly 90 minutes away. Charlottesville is a fabulous city complete with stellar culinary dining choices, art galleries, performing arts, sporting events at the University of Virginia, music venues, not to mention a full array of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, watersports, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

As an emerging wine region, Virginia and the Monticello AVA offer the opportunity to network with other local winemakers who continually strive to raise the bar for Virginia wines.

Job Description:
Our Harvest Intern position is a seasonal hourly position that will begin in mid-August and ends mid-November. This position will report directly to our Cellar Lead. In this role, you will support the 2023 grape harvest and assist in activities related to the winemaking process.

•  Clean and sanitize all areas (facility and equipment).
•  Fruit processing: fruit intake, sorting, destemming, crushing, press operation, etc.
•  Assist with fermentation monitoring including sampling, processing, additions, cap management pump overs, punch downs and pressing.
•  Perform barrel work including receiving, cleaning, preparing, racking, filling, and topping.
•  Safely and efficiently operate a forklift.
•  Perform other duties as required or directed to ensure the smooth operation of winery activities.
•  Perform basic equipment and building maintenance.

Qualifications:

•  Previous harvest experience is preferred, but not mandatory.
•  Ability to perform physical labor and lift up to 50lbs. on a regular basis.
•  Must have reliable own transportation.
•  Ability to operate a forklift or be trained to become certified.
•  Self-motivated with ability to work independently.
•  Must be eligible to work in the United States.
•  Work on and around ladders, catwalks, uneven flooring, in hot, cold, and wet environments: with typical winery chemical exposure and conditions.
•  In this position, standing, kneeling, crouching, and climbing may be required.
•  Valid driver’s license and insurable by the company insurance carrier required.
•  Able to work with a team in a supportive and positive atmosphere, strong organizational, teambuilding, problem solving skills, attention to detail, with ability to multi-task.