Winemaker (Wine Jobs: Management & Administration)

Job Description:

Goose Ridge Vineyards is looking to fill an immediate opening for an experienced Winemaker. This is the right opportunity for a technically and science-minded, yet creative individual with a strong work ethic.
Goose Ridge Estate Vineyards and Winery is a family-owned and operated winery dedicated to excellence in winemaking using all estate-grown grapes. The vineyard is planted on a south-facing slope in Washington’s Columbia Valley adjacent to Red Mountain that consistently yields rich, ripe grapes. The Monson family has farmed in the Columbia Valley for four decades and is known for their commitment to quality. Goose Ridge Vineyard is built on that tradition.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities are as follows but are not limited to:
1. Collaborate with winemaking team, vineyard manager, and management on all technical and stylistic decisions necessary to produce wines that best reflect the Goose Ridge Estate Vineyard and the winery’s mission statement and values.
2. Complete winemaking operations to fulfill winemaking goals and production targets for custom winemaking and estate wine brands.
3. Manage daily work order generation and delegation.
4. Plan daily and weekly logistics for fermentation and processing during harvest.
5. Monitor and maintain wine quality using laboratory analysis and sensory evaluation.
6. Complete sensory analysis and blending of wines.
7. Coordinate and conduct all tastings and lab trials needed for winemaking decisions.
8. Supervise cellar and barrel room staff – including training staff and directing work-flow to ensure production timelines and quality guidelines are met.
9. Assist at hospitality tastings and events
10. Development, implementation, and maintenance of quality control procedures.
11. Cultivate a good understanding of all winemaking procedures and production protocols.
12. Routinely evaluate and propose enhancements to procedures or equipment to improve wine quality and efficiency.
13. Understand fruit sourcing & perform vineyard evaluations.
14. Maintain monthly and yearly production schedule
Candidate Requirements:
1. BS in Enology or related scientific field is essential.
2. 5 years prior wine production experience – preferably in a supervisory capacity.
3. Experience with large-scale and boutique winemaking a plus.
4. Possess strong laboratory skills and sensory evaluation skills
5. Excellent written and verbal communication skills
6. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
7. Proficient computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel.
8. Knowledge of wine tracking software systems.
9. Ability to be a team player as well as work independently.
10. Drive to pursue continued education and improve winemaking skills.
11. Proficient at forklift operation.
12. Ability to work with all levels of Management.
13. Ability to work long hours during harvest.
14. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. using safe protocol.
15. Must be 21 years of age.
The applicant must be flexible, professional, highly motivated, and able to manage multiple responsibilities and staff and complete tasks efficiently with a high degree of accuracy. This position reports directly to the Head Winemaker.
This is a paid, full-time, salary position working 10 hour shifts Monday through Thursday. Working Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and/or evenings will be necessary during harvest or for special events. Salary and benefits will be determined based on level of qualifications and experience.
For consideration, please include a cover letter and your resume when replying to this posting.
Goose Ridge Vineyards is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
All submissions will be treated with strict confidentiality.