Winemaker
(Wine Jobs:
Vineyards & Cellars )
Full Time
Lillooet,
British Columbia
Winemaker at Fort Berens Estate Winery in Lillooet
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. Our priority is finding the right person to join our team and help us craft premium wines. If you are qualified and are looking to live in a beautiful environment with affordable housing, please apply now!
About us:
Our winery 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. The Coast Mountains to the west of Lillooet keep rain and clouds away, ensuring that the vines receive plenty of sunshine. In 2009, we planted 20 acres with six varieties: Riesling, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. The vineyard was recently expanded, when we planted 18 more acres in Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon and Gruner Veltliner. The Lillooet area became one of the new designated VQA areas in BC this year.
We make and sell premium, award winning BC VQA wines. Currently our production is 12,000 cases and is expected to increase to 15,000 in the next years. The winemaker will be working closely with our vineyard manager and independent grape growers to ensure that our wines start with the very best grapes.
Responsibilities:
The Winemaker will be responsible for all day to day winemaking operations required to produce premium wines that express our unique terroir.
Winemaker’s role and responsibilities include:
- Develop and execute a vintage plan for each of our varietals and wines;
- Develop and manage a budget for the winery activities;
- Perform laboratory analysis;
- Manage and control the quality of our wines throughout the 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);
- Represent the winery at promotional activities; attending events and venues to showcase the wines and to provide support to the marketing and sales teams and other winemaking, Public Relations or industry related duties as assigned.
The Winemaker must be willing to work non-standard hours, 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).
Offer:
We offer a permanent full time contract. Salary and benefits will be according to experience.