Winemaker

Winemakers make wine from grapes and other fruit.

Pay:

Pay for winemakers varies depending on seniority, years of experience, the size of the winery and its region and tasks performed.

Job opportunities: Chances of getting a job as a winemaker are good for experienced winemakers but average for those entering the industry.

Length of training: 1-3 years of training usually required.

About the job

What you will do:

• discuss fruit quality and quantity with grape growers (viticulturists) throughout the growing season
• develop new wine styles and improve the wine quality
• process grapes to make wine
• control fermentation and adjust wines as needed
• ensure legal standards and specifications are met, such as alcohol level requirements in the country of export
• filter, bottle and package the wine for sale
• manage winery workers
• maintain winemaking equipment and machinery
• record procedures, blends and inventories
• market and sell

Some winemakers may also carry out the tasks of grape growers if working for a small winery.

Skills and knowledge needed:

• different wine styles and varieties
• winery and vineyard technology
• wine-related science, such as chemistry, biology and microbiology, and laboratory skills
• hygiene and sterilisation methods
• flow process technology (pumps and hoses).

Winemakers who work in the vineyard may need to know how to operate vehicles such as tractors or forklifts. Knowledge of first aid and safety may also be helpful.

How to enter the job

To become a winemaker you usually need to have:

• a degree, diploma or certificate in winemaking, or a Bachelor of Science
• some years’ experience working as a cellar hand or assistant

There are no set entry requirements to become a cellar hand or assistant winemaker, but many employers prefer some experience of working in the wine industry.

Winemakers gain skills on the job, including how to do smell and taste testing of wines. Some qualifications can be completed by correspondence while working on a vineyard.

Secondary education:. Useful school subjects include maths, English and  particularly chemistry.

Personal qualities needed:

• good communication skills
• an eye for detail
• able to work well under pressure
• practical and creative
• skilled at business, management and

Useful experience:

• vineyard experience
• laboratory experience in breweries or dairy factories
• experience in wine sales, tasting or

Related jobs: Microbiologist, Biochemist, Biotechnologist, Brewer, Food Technologist.

Vocational pathways: Manufacturing and technology, Primary industries.