Production winemaker

The Production Winemaker is responsible for supporting the production, quality, and day-to-day operations of all bulk and bottled wines within Diamond Estates’ domestic portfolio, including VQA, Non-VQA, and IDB blends.

This role provides hands-on leadership in cellar operations, production scheduling, quality assurance, inventory management, and staff supervision. The Production Winemaker works closely with the Senior Winemaker, Cellar Master, and Operations teams to ensure wine quality, consistency, and production efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Production & Cellar Operations

• Oversee and assist daily cellar operations and execution of production tasks.
• Create and manage production schedules; coordinate workflow with cellar staff.
• Create and monitor progress on work orders, ensuring deadlines and quality standards are met.
• Participate in daily tasting and validate the quality and condition of bulk wines.
• Approve bottling tanks and ensure adherence to predetermined specifications.
• Assist with raw material ordering and inventory management (dry goods, grapes, juice, bulk wine).
• Help troubleshoot production issues, including staffing or equipment challenges, to minimize downtime.
• Assist with the implementation of HACCP, GFSI (BRC) food safety program.

Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Ensure wines meet quality and corporate standards.
• Support the development and execution of SOPs for cellar and production operations.
• Document quality control procedures and report issues to the Senior Winemaker.
• Maintain compliance with regulatory requirements (AGCO, VQA, LCBO, GFSI, export markets, etc.).
• Support inventory counts and audits as required.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized working environment, in line with Health & Safety standards.

Team Leadership & Staff Management

• Supervise, train, and support cellar staff and production team members.
• Delegate tasks effectively and provide coaching and performance feedback.
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, and ongoing development of production staff.
• Ensure staff are trained on equipment operation, SOPs, and safety protocols.
• Foster a positive and collaborative team environment.

Collaboration & Support

• Work closely with the Senior Winemaker to meet production targets and wine quality expectations.
• Support Marketing and Sales teams by providing technical knowledge of wine styles and production capabilities.
• Participate in winemaker events, tastings, and tours as needed.
• Assist with sourcing and inventory of materials and supplies in collaboration with Operations.