Assistant Winemaker

Assistant Winemaker

FULL TIME | 13^th Street Winery, St. Catharines ON

13^th Street Winery is a family-owned winery with a mission to craft exceptional wines that celebrate the unique terroir in Niagara. 

We are seeking a passionate, detail-oriented, and motivated Assistant Winemaker to support the winemaking team in all aspects of wine production. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in a cellar and winery setting with a strong understanding of winemaking practices, from grape to bottle. This role is vital to maintaining wine quality, consistency, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Harvest Operations
  • Assist in planning and coordinating grape receiving and processing during harvest.
  • Perform grape sampling, maturity analysis, quality assessments and Grape Growers of Ontario data entry.
  • Supervise cellar crew and seasonal workers during crush and fermentation.

• Winemaking & Production
  • Execute day-to-day cellar activities including fermentation monitoring, pump-overs, rackings, additions, blending, sanitation and bottling prep.
  • Conduct lab analyses and maintain accurate records of wine status and movements.
  • Collaborate in the development of wine styles and blends under the direction of the Head Winemaker.
  • Help manage inventory and ordering of wine, barrels, additives, and supplies.
  • Provide input in new winery equipment acquisitions to increase quality and efficiencies. 

• Quality Control
  • Monitor fermentation kinetics and troubleshoot any issues under the head winemaker’s guidance.
  • Perform sensory evaluations and tastings at all stages of production.
  • Ensure strict adherence to sanitation, safety, and regulatory compliance.

• Facility Management
  • Assist with maintenance and calibration of winery equipment and buildings. 
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization throughout the cellar and production areas.

• Administrative Support
  • Maintain detailed winemaking records and work orders.
  • Assist with compliance reporting (VQA Audits).
  • Monthly bulk wine inventory
  • Support Director of Sales and Winemaker in public-facing winery activities.

• Sales
  • Participate in wine club and industry events as 13^th Street Winery representative as required 

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Enology & Viticulture or related field. 
• 4+ years of experience in winemaking or cellar operations.
• Strong understanding of winemaking techniques and wine chemistry.
• Experience with lab testing equipment and procedures.
• Forklift certification.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs and work extended hours during harvest.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Proficiency with winemaking software and MS Office is a plus.

What We Value in This Role

• A positive approach to team dynamics and workplace culture
• Willingness to collaborate and support colleagues
• Problem-solving mindset and ability to adapt on the fly
• Commitment to safety, communication, and shared responsibility

What We Offer

• A collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Opportunities to grow and develop your winemaking career.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Access to staff tastings and industry events.
• Direct communication line to ownership

To Apply:

Please send your resume and a cover letter to Karen@13thstreetwinery.com. Include “Assistant Winemaker Application” in the subject line.