Winemaker (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

  Laurentia Vineyard and Winery (http://www.laurentiawinery.com)

  Madison, Ohio

Winemaker

Laurentia Vineyard and Winery, a premier estate winery located in Madison, Ohio, is seeking a motivated Winemaker to fill an immediate opening. We own 43 acres of estate wine grapes in the Grand River Valley and currently have an annual production of 3500 cases. We specialize in dry and off-dry wines produced from cool climate vineyards. Our diverse array of wine includes Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and more.

The Winemaker will be responsible for daily cellar operations and laboratory analysis including daily record keeping. The winemaker will work on all aspects of winemaking and cellar activities from inventory planning, processing/crush pad activities, fermentation management, additions, movements, racking/transferring, blending, finishing/bottling and warehousing all wines. He/she will participate in all winemaking decisions under the authority of the owners, will coordinate and oversee hands-on production of the highest quality wines that best reflect the Laurentia estate vineyards and the winery’s mission statement and values. 

Duties & Responsibilities:
*Coordinate all aspects of the crush, pressing, settling and all other phases of juice treatment and fermentation of the must.
*Generate, manage, and interpret laboratory analysis of all wine and fermentation monitoring. 
*Responsible for correct calculations and management of all chemical additions
*Manage extensive barrel program, keeping barrels in good condition, using kegs for topping, cleaning bungs and empty barrels.
*Must ensure appropriate production and sanitation procedures are followed including implementing a sanitation and FSMA policy for the production area.
*Must maintain daily record keeping including monthly and annual production schedules
*Ability to identify potential problems in wines and make recommendations
*Perform sensory evaluations of wines
*Lead and participate in bench trials prior to blending
*Train and supervise cellar assistants during harvest
*Provide input to vineyard management regarding fruit chemistry goals
*Partake in laboratory evaluations, laboratory budgets and laboratory capital recommendations
*Assist with guided tours and private tastings as needed
*Assist with staff training as needed
*Represent the winery at various industry, media, regulatory, and trade events
*Other duties as assigned

Credentials & Skill Sets/Education:
*Degree in Enology, Fermentation Sciences or closely related field. Work experience in lieu of a degree will also be considered
*At least 5 years experience in winemaking with direct responsibility managing wine production as a winemaker or assistant winemaker
*Practical knowledge and ability to operate winemaking machinery including filters, bottling line, press, pumps, forklift, and other cellar equipment
*Proven ability to produce quality premium wines with strong sensory evaluation skills
*Ability to use a PC with proficiency in Windows and Microsoft Office
*Experience writing reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals
*Self-starter, motivated, results driven, “can do” attitude, problem solver, able to manage priorities with enthusiasm
*Good judgment with the ability to make timely and sound decisions
*Ability to work within existing and established guidelines
*A valid driver’s license and ability to be insured on company vehicles

Physical Requirements:
*Employee may often need to lift and/or move more than 50 lbs.
*Ability to pull, push, kneel, bend, reach and climb
*This position requires a high level of energy, and candidates should be aware of the physical demands of winery work.

This position requires extensive, long work hours during peak seasons including days, nights, weekdays, weekends and some holidays. The candidate will receive a generous annual salary based on experience and ability, health insurance, paid vacation, and employee discounts. To apply, please send your resume and salary requirements. No phone calls, please. www.laurentiawinery.com

How To Apply

No phone calls, please.

---