Winemaker (Wine Jobs: Vineyards & Cellars )

Full Time

  Bolney Wine Estate

  Bolney Wine Estate, Haywards Heath, RH17 5NB, England

 

 

Role Overview

The Winemaker is a senior technical and creative leader at Bolney Wine Estate, responsible for overseeing the entire winemaking process from grape to bottle. This role combines scientific precision, artistic vision, and operational leadership to craft premium English wines that reflect the estate’s terroir and values. Reporting to the Winery and Operations Manager, the Winemaker leads the cellar and lab teams, develops wine styles, ensures regulatory compliance, and drives continuous improvement in quality, sustainability, and innovation.

 

Key Responsibilities

🍇 Winemaking & Vintage Management

  • Lead all stages of winemaking, including grape intake, fermentation, blending, stabilisation, and bottling.
  • Develop and refine wine styles in collaboration with the Winery and Operations Manager.
  • Manage fermentation protocols, yeast/nutrient additions, and temperature control.
  • Oversee tirage in traditional method sparkling wine production, and support the Assistant Operations Manager in riddling, disgorging, and dosage trials.
  • Conduct sensory evaluations, blending trials, and experimental batches.

🧪 Quality Assurance & Compliance

  • Supervise lab operations and ensure accurate analysis of SO₂, pH, VA, RS, alcohol, and microbial stability.
  • Maintain full traceability and documentation using winery software (e.g. Innovint).
  • Ensure compliance with DEFRA, PDO/PGI, SALSA, HACCP, COSHH, and other UK wine regulations.
  • Lead internal audits and support external inspections.

🧼 Cellar & Equipment Oversight

  • Supervise and support the Assistant Winemaker and Cellar Hands in daily cellar operations.
  • Ensure all equipment is maintained, calibrated, and operated safely.
  • Uphold hygiene and sanitation protocols across all production areas.
  • Oversee barrel management and maturation programs.

👥 Team Leadership & Development

  • Manage and mentor the Assistant Winemaker, Cellar Hands, interns, and seasonal staff.
  • Foster a collaborative, safety-conscious, and quality-driven culture.
  • Develop SOPs and training programs to support team growth and consistency.

📦 Inventory & Supply Chain

  • Oversee procurement and inventory of winemaking materials, chemicals, and dry goods.
  • Liaise with suppliers and coordinate deliveries in collaboration with the operations team.
  • Support bottling logistics and quality control.

🌱 Sustainability & Innovation

  • Champion sustainable winemaking practices aligned with SWGB standards.
  • Collaborate with the Vineyard Manager and Lab Compliance Co-ordinator on environmental initiatives.
  • Contribute to carbon tracking, energy efficiency, and waste reduction strategies.

🍷 Brand Representation & Wine Tourism

  • Represent the winery at tastings, trade events, and industry forums.
  • Support marketing and PR with technical input for product launches and storytelling when required.
  • Participate in winery tours and educational sessions when required.

💻 Strategic & Administrative Support

  • Contribute to production planning, budgeting, and forecasting.
  • Maintain accurate production records and generate reports for management.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement and innovation.

 

Person Specification

Essential:

  • Minimum 5 years’ experience in commercial winemaking, including leadership roles.
  • Strong technical knowledge of winemaking processes, lab analysis, and compliance.
  • Proven ability to lead teams and manage production schedules.
  • Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organisational skills.
  • Right to work in the UK and ability to work flexible hours during peak periods.
  • Forklift licence (or willingness to obtain).

Desirable:

  • Degree or diploma in Viticulture, Enology, or related field.
  • Experience with traditional method sparkling wine production.
  • Familiarity with UK wine regulations and SWGB standards.
  • Proficiency in winery software (e.g. Innovint).
  • Passion for sustainability and regenerative agriculture.

 

Why This Role Matters

The Winemaker is the creative and operational heart of Bolney Wine Estate’s wine production. This role ensures that every bottle reflects the estate’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation. By leading the winemaking team, refining wine styles, and upholding the highest standards, the Winemaker plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of English wine and the legacy of Bolney.

 

 

How To Apply

Please apply via our vacancy link:

https://freixenetcopestick.bamboohr.com/careers/36

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