Assistant Winemaker (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

  Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards (http://www.lightfootandwolfville.com)

  Wolfville, Nova Scotia

Situated in the Annapolis Valley, Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards is one of Nova Scotia’s newest wineries, officially opening to the public in the summer of 2017. Owned and operated by the Lightfoot family who have been farming in the Annapolis Valley for eight generations, Lightfoot & Wolfville provides a unique farm-winery experience. After planting vines in 2009, the first wines under this label were released in 2015. The focus is on elegant, cool-climate wines that speak of their origin including award-winning Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, aromatic whites such as Riesling and sparkling wines. Embracing organic and biodynamic agriculture, this estate nurtures not only 40 acres of vineyard but also raises heritage breed livestock and grows its own produce for the winery kitchen. With close proximity to the Minas Basin and the world’s highest tides, cool breezes and excellent temperature moderation help create wines with great distinction. At a current annual production of 8000 cases, Lightfoot & Wolfville’s winemaking program is about a return from modern, large-scale methods to classic, artisanal viticulture and enology.

We are searching for a full-time Assistant Winemaker to join our winegrowing team.

Desired Attributes:

▪    Degree in oenology/winemaking

▪    Experience (2+ years) in wine production

▪    Comfortable operating production equipment such as press, pumps, power washers, etc.

▪    Interest in organic and biodynamic agricutlure 

▪    Strength in the following skill areas: reliability, organization, motivation, communication, positivity, attention to detail, ability to work within a team

▪    A passion for fine wine, artisanal practices and a dedication to quality

▪    The successful candidate must have a flexible schedule and be willing to work long, physical hours during harvest as required, including weekends, have a valid driver’s license, be able to lift 50lbs and drive a forklift/skid-steer.

▪    Ability to use Microsoft Office programs – Excel, Word, PowerPoint – with proficiency

This hands-on position involves every aspect of production from crush pad to bottle, working closely with the Winemaker and Vineyard Manager.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

▪    Operation of crush pad during harvest

▪    Participate in vineyard fruit assessments

▪    Manage and execute all cellar tasks under direction from the Head Winemaker including transfers, racking, barrel work, filtering, cleaning, etc.

▪    Maintain H&S standards and cleanliness in production area

▪    Record keeping

▪    Manage inventories

▪    Laboratory analysis

▪    Bottling line supervision and operation

▪    Taste wines and make winemaking decisions in conjunction with the rest of the winemaking team.

▪    Represent the winery at tastings, events and on tours as needed

▪    Assist with the management of farm animals

How to apply:

Send cover letter and resume including two references to: [email protected]

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