Winemaker
(Wine Jobs:
Wine Retail & Sommelier)
Full Time
Sand Castle Winery
Erwinna,
Pennsylvania
Job Description:
Job Title: Winemaker
Location: Erwinna, Delaware River Valley AVA, Pennsylvania
Type: Full-Time
About Us:
Our 50-year old historic estate is nestled in the Delaware River Valley AVA, with approximately 40 acres currently under vine, comprised mostly of Chardonnay, Riesling, and Cabernet Sauvignon. We’ve recently launched an extensive renovation campaign that will redefine the property, brand and portfolio. Our goal is to build a winemaking and vineyard team that can produce high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of this beautiful region and provide a level of excellence in hospitality within our property. We are seeking an experienced and visionary Winemaker to lead our production team as we embark on this new chapter. This role includes overseeing all cellar operations, creating and implementing standard operating procedures, and ensuring the highest standards of wine quality.
Responsibilities:
• Report directly to executive leadership team.
• Manage all cellar and vineyard personnel, reinforcing best practices and standards.
• Lead the entire winemaking process, from grape to glass, ensuring high quality and consistency across vintages.
• Bring new and varied products to market through all distribution channels – including retail, wholesale and tasting room.
• Maintain and scale all aspects of cellar and vineyard operations.
• Develop and implements standard operating procedures for all cellar operations, ensuring organization, cleanliness and safety.
• Manage all aspects of wine production, including fermentation, racking, blending, aging, and bottling.
• Collaborate with the vineyard manager and outside growers to coordinate harvest schedules, grape quality assessments, and picking decisions.
• Oversee the ordering and inventory of winemaking supplies and cellar equipment.
• Manage and train cellar staff to maintain best practices and standards.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and maintain accurate records of production and inventory.
• Actively participate in all company-wide employee training, compliance and evaluation processes.
Qualifications:
• Degree in Enology, Viticulture, or a related field preferred, with a minimum of 5 years of winemaking experience.
• Forklift experience.
• Ability to lift 50lbs and work in a physically demanding environment.
• Proven expertise in wine production, cellar management, and SOP development.
• Strong understanding of fermentation science, wine chemistry, and lab analysis.
• Exceptional organizational and leadership skills with a detail-oriented approach to quality control.
• Ability to work collaboratively with vineyard and production teams and mentor cellar staff.
Benefits:
• Competitive salary based on experience
• Health and wellness benefits
• Opportunities for professional development
• A supportive and collaborative work environment in an established AVA
