Director of Winemaking and Viticulture
(Wine Jobs:
Vineyards & Cellars )
Full Time
Malagash/Annapolis Valley,
Nova Scotia
Devonian Coast Wineries owns and operates three distinctly different award winning wineries in Nova Scotia, Canada with total production of well over 100,000 cases per year.
The largest, Jost Vineyards, is nestled on the beautiful Northumberland shores of Nova Scotia. Jost Vineyards produces world-class wines from some of the most distinctive premium-quality grapes in North America. As the undisputed leader and longest operating winery in the Atlantic region for the past 30 years, we aspire to capture the true character and essence of our unique terroir in every bottle of wine we produce.
The second winery, Gaspereau Vineyards is a premium boutique operation in the Annapolis Valley region of the Province. In 2012, it was rated number 16 among the over 400 wineries in Canada.
The third operation is in its infancy and the goal is for the Devonian team to shape it into a game changer in style and quality for wineries in the province.
While it is an exhilarating time to be part of one of the world’s fine emerging wine regions, it is even more exciting to be part of the Devonian Coast team. We are a group of passionate individuals who care deeply about our craft and are excited to play a role in building our company and reputation. We are committed to our products, each other and our focus on customer experience.
Our winemaking and viticulture teams believe the best wines are made in the vineyard. They are responsible for the production and processing of grapes from over 200 acres spread across several distinct vineyards throughout Nova Scotia. With sustainable practices that ensure care for the environment, we are committed to growing our diverse portfolio through thoughtful and progressive viticulture practices.
Position Description – We are looking for a world class professional who is both inspired and motivated by the challenge of crafting premium wines in cooler climates. You are an agent of change and are steadfast in your vision to create world-class product. You are not afraid to do what it takes to get the job done - while inspiring others to do the same. As a key member of our leadership team and a driving force behind our multi-year plans, you are also comfortable managing substantial growth and the sometimes-frenetic environment that goes along with it.
Responsibilities include:
§ Provide leadership to the winemaking and vineyard teams (estate and contract growers) in developing and executing multiyear growth plans.
§ In collaboration with consultant and winemakers, help develop and refine wine styles that build on the strengths of the regional terroir.
§ Bring science based knowledge to the Viticulture team to gain better understanding of premium grape growing techniques that can be applied in Nova Scotia and translate that knowledge into producing premium tiered wines.
§ Provide direction and coordination to wine making functions, from receiving grapes to final blending and bottling on a range of both red and white varieties.
§ As a key member of the leadership team, help improve winemaking and vineyard processes and practices from new vineyard establishment to wine portfolio design.
§ Ensure compliance of site operations and practices with company policies and Federal and Provincial regulations.
§ Represent the company as a leader in the craft; 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 appropriate.
Job Requirements
§ Bachelor’s Degree (B.S) in Enology or Viticulture from a recognized university.
§ Minimum of 5 years industry winemaking and vineyard experience, working with premium wines in a variety of international settings.
§ 2 years’ experience in a wine production facility producing at least 100K cases annually.
§ 2 years’ experience working closely with viticulture teams in the vineyards on premium grape production.
§ Proven knowledge and understanding of viticulture, premium grape growing techniques and how that translates into producing a premium tiered wine.
§ Experience with growing and making wine from cool climate vinifera and hybrid grapes would be an asset.
§ Proven ability to inspire, motivate, coach and lead.
§ The ability to work independently, or in a team environment.
§ A strong focus on continuous learning and progression in the entire process of making wine.
§ Experienced with MS Office, data driven and have the ability to learn and use company wine management system.
Professionally and personally, this role could take you further than you ever thought possible. It is an exciting opportunity in a dynamic environment that champions quality, continuous improvement and career development.
Combine a work environment where having fun is a core value with living in a part of the world where quality of life is among the best on the planet, at Devonian Coast Wineries Ltd. you can be the master of a very exciting future.
