Winemaker (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

  Fort Berens Estate Winery Ltd (http://www.fortberens.ca)

  Lillooet, British Columbia

 

To support us in producing premium wines, we are looking for professional leadership in our winery. This is an exciting opportunity for the right individual looking to advance their career in the wine industry. If you are qualified and are looking to live in a beautiful environment with affordable housing, please apply now!

About us:
Our vineyard is located in the magnificent Fraser Canyon across the Fraser River from the town of Lillooet. Lillooet is one of the "Hot Spots" in Canada, with a climate that is comparable with the South Okanagan. In 2009, we planted 20 acres: Riesling, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. In 2018, we planted 9 more acres and in 2019 nine acres more will follow. The Lillooet area became one of the new designated VQA areas in BC this year.

Our premium, award winning BC VQA wines are sold across BC. Currently, we produce about 12,000 cases annually. We continuously seek to improve the expression of the local terroir. We are seeking a professional dedicated to produce premium wines.

Responsibilities:

·         Develop and execute a vintage plan for each of our varietals and wines

·         Develop and manage an operating and capital expenditure budget for all winery activities

·         Perform laboratory analysis

·         Manage and control the quality of our wines throughout the winemaking process

·         Contribute to the development of wine quality standards and stylistic strategies;

·         Work collaboratively with the Viticulture Team to optimize quality, style and yields

·         Ensure compliance with Federal and Provincial regulations (VQA Standards, WCB regulations etc)

·         Work collaboratively with the other areas of the business including Tasting Room, Wine Club, Kitchen, business to business sales and marketing teams on marketing and sales related matters

The Winemaker must be willing to work on a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, as needed.

Qualifications:

·         Bachelor’s Degree (B.S) in Enology or Science from a recognized university;

·         Minimum 5 years industry hands-on winemaking experience, working with premium wines;

·         Proven knowledge and understanding of viticulture, premium grape growing techniques and how that translates into producing premium wine;

·         A leader and team player, able to work and interact with many different players;

·         Highly motivated to learn and discover with us in this new viticulture region;

·         A strong focus on continuous learning and development in the winemaking role;

·         Physically fit;

·         A valid passport; BC driver’s license; First Aid Level I; Forklift certificate;

·         Functional knowledge of office software (word, excel).

 

A full-time, year-round position, salary and benefits will be according to experience.

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