Cellar Hand & Vineyard Assistant
(Wine Jobs:
Vineyards & Cellars )
Full Time
Danbury Ridge Wine Estate, Essex,
England
Job Title: Cellar Hand & Vineyard Assistant
Location: Danbury Ridge Wine Estate, Essex
Reports To: Winemaker and Vineyard Manager
Contract Type: Full-Time
About Danbury Ridge:
Danbury Ridge Wine Estate is at the forefront of English wine production, crafting world-class Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and sparkling wines in the Crouch Valley. Our approach combines meticulous vineyard management with precision winemaking, creating wines that express the unique character of our exceptional microclimate and terroir.
We are now seeking a motivated Cellar Hand & Vineyard Assistant to join our dedicated team. This role is ideally suited to someone beginning a career in wine production—perhaps a recent viticulture or oenology graduate—or an individual with some practical experience in viticulture, winemaking, or related agricultural work.
The successful candidate will gain hands-on experience across both vineyard and winery operations, with extensive training and clear opportunities for development within one of the UK’s most dynamic wine estates.
Role Overview:
This is a varied, hands-on role that supports both the vineyard and winery teams throughout the year. Responsibilities will shift seasonally — focusing on vineyard operations in the growing season and winery work during harvest and production periods.
The position requires flexibility, physical fitness, and a strong work ethic. Harvest and the peak of the growing season will involve longer hours, including evenings and weekends.
Key Responsibilities:
In the vineyard:
· Participate in all seasonal vineyard operations, including pruning, canopy management, wire lifting, shoot thinning, leaf removal, and green harvesting.
· Support with the application and removal of bird nets and assist with grape sampling and harvesting.
· Operate and maintain vineyard machinery (tractors, implements) under supervision.
· Monitor vine health and report issues to the Vineyard Manager or Winemaker.
· Assist with vineyard maintenance tasks such as mowing, strimming, and general site upkeep.
In the winery:
· Assist with all aspects of cellar operations during harvest, including fruit reception, sorting, destemming, pressing, and cleaning.
· Carry out cellar tasks such as racking, topping, and barrel maintenance.
· Operate and sanitise winery equipment to a high standard.
· Support bottling, labelling, disgorging, packaging, and dispatch operations.
· Conduct basic lab work (pH, titration, density).
· Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and organisation throughout the winery.
General Estate Work:
· Help maintain the estate’s appearance, including weeding, sweeping, and light maintenance.
· Ensure compliance with all health and safety requirements.
· Support the team with ad-hoc tasks.
Skills and Attributes:
· Strong work ethic and enthusiasm to learn new skills.
· Passionate about wine and wine production.
· Positive, proactive attitude with excellent attention to detail.
· Team player—reliable, adaptable, and communicative.
· Comfortable working outdoors in all weathers and able to lift up to 25kg.
· Willingness to work flexible and extended hours during busy periods (particularly at harvest).
· Full, clean UK driving licence (essential).
· Right to work in the UK (essential).
Desirable Experience:
· Previous experience in a winery or vineyard environment.
· Experience operating tractors, forklifts, or other agricultural machinery.
· Relevant qualifications in viticulture, oenology, or agriculture.
· PA1/PA3 spray certificates and/or forklift licence (advantageous but not essential).
Benefits:
· Comprehensive on-the-job training in both vineyard and winery operations, with full sight of the entire production process.
· Shared accommodation available.
· Opportunities for progression within the vineyard and winery for motivated individuals.
· Harvest meals, staff socials, and an inclusive, collaborative working environment.
· Staff wine allocation and discount.
· The chance to be part of one of the UK’s most exciting and forward-thinking wine estates.
To apply, please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the role to [email protected]
This role is offered at the living wage, with the potential for a higher rate for candidates with relevant experience or proven skills.
