Harvest Worker
(Wine Jobs:
Vineyards & Cellars )
Contract
Va Piano Vineyards
Walla Walla,
Washington
Come work harvest in WASHINGTON STATE: The New Epicenter of Wine
Va Piano Vineyards is the creation of Justin Wylie, a fourth generation native of the Walla Walla Valley in Eastern Washington. Meaning “Go Slowly” in Italian, the spirit of Va Piano is to create wines that fit into an experience of laid-back luxury. We produce stunning wine from both sustainable estate vineyards (Va Piano Estate, Octave Estate, and Eritage- carrying various certifications from LIVE, Salmon Safe, and Vinea), as well as small lots from some of Washington State’s premier sites (Dubrul, Rosebud, Les Collines, Stoney Vine…). We craft a range of wines focusing on site-specific Syrah and Bordeaux-varieties, but also make a couple of roses, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. Fermentations range from half a ton to 6 tons for our largest lot.
Harvest in Walla Walla generally lasts from mid-August through mid-November, but specific dates are dependent on mother nature.
As a harvest cellar worker, a strong work ethic and ability to be completely present in every task is essential to both survival and to ensure that we are giving the fruit a chance to become the best wine possible. Responsibilities include all aspects of cellar work including fruit sorting, cap management, fermentation monitoring, racking, barrel work, lab work, etc… Cleaning and sanitation are an essential function of nearly every part of the process. This is a great opportunity to gain hands on experience with all aspects of harvest operations.
We will have as many dinners together as possible, prepared by our Italian-American culinary team, and open iconic and classic wines from around the world.
Qualifications & Specific Skills:
*. Minimum of 1 harvest of cellar experience.
*. Strong organizational skills; ability to manage changing priorities and workflow.
*. Willingness to learn winemaking operations and their effect on wine quality and style.
*. Basic math, reading, and writing skills.
*. Ability to work while bending, twisting, squatting, pushing, pulling, reaching overhead, or kneeling for 2 to 3 hours continuously, with very long days possible during the busiest times
*. Ability to lift 50 pounds.
*. Ability to operate a forklift, or learn to do so
*. Willingness to work long hours, nightshift and weekends.
