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Wine Making
Winemakers plan, supervise and coordinate the production of wine or spirits from selected varieties of grapes. Winemakers need an excellent sense of smell and taste, and should be able to think analytically to solve problems. They should be able to make accuarate observations, and need good interpersonal and communication skills.
TASKS
- Liaise with viticulturists who manage planting programs and the cultivation and production of grapes
- conduct various laboratory tests to monitor the progress of grapes to ensure their quality and to determine the correct time for harvest
- organise the crushing and pressing of grapes, the settling of juice and the fermentation of grape material
- direct the filtering of wine to remove remaining solids
- conduct laboratory tests and monitor quality of wine
- place filtered wine in casks or tanks for storage and maturation
- prepare plans for bottling wine once it has matured and make sure that quality is maintained when the wine is bottled
- supervise cellar personnel involved in the production of wine
- supervise the maintenance of the vineyard and winery during the off-season
- liaise with sales and marketing staff to make sure of the production of appropriate wine types, styles and qualities
- conduct technical in-service training for cellar staff
- give guided tours, conduct tastings and advise visitors about various aspects of wine.
Scientific knowledge is playing an increasingly important role in winemaking and some winemakers specialise in the research and development of wine.
Winemakers working in large wineries are in charge of the technical side of the business. Those working in small wineries may be responsible for the whole winemaking process, from the growing of the grapes to the bottling and marketing of the finished wine.
Source: Western Cape Department of Agriculture website
Some great study options in the Western Cape:
- Cape Wine Academy
- B.Agric Cellar Management at Cape Institute for Agricultural Training: Elsenburg (in conjunction with the University of Stellenbosch)
- Diploma in Cellar Technology (one year): Modular programme aimed at training candidates as winemakers: Elsenburg
Useful Information
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Career Snapshot Wine Making |
In Demand
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Qualification Required |
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Work Outdoors |
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Maths Required |
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Science Required |
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This is a general guide - it is important to check admission requirements with the various training institutions first because entry requirements may vary.
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