Assistant Winemaker - Marnong Estate

Mickleham, VIC
Permanent
Full-time

9 hours ago

DescriptionMarnong Estate has built a strong brand and reputation for producing high-quality wines that consistently earn recognition and awards in many of the country's top wine shows. The portfolio showcases classic cool climate varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, as well as a range of Italian varieties including Sangiovese, Montepulciano and Fiano.The new state-of-the-art winery and vineyard form part of the expansive Marnong Estate, located just 35 minutes from Melbourne's CBD in the Sunbury wine region. Bordering the Macedon Ranges, the estate vineyard currently has 34 Ha under vine, with an additional 5 Ha to be planted in the coming year.Reporting to the Winemaker, this is a hands-on role that will be responsible for executing cellar operations and production plans to specification. The Assistant Winemaker will have the opportunity to deepen their technical winemaking skills and contribute meaningfully to all stages of production, with active engagement across both winery and vineyard operations. This is a winery-focused role that will also be involved in all stages of the vineyard lifecycle, providing support as needed.The Assistant Winemaker will have access to extensive professional development opportunities, with support to advance their skillset, industry involvement and to take on greater responsibility within the business.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESWinemaking Operations:

Execute all cellar operations, including fermentation monitoring, additions, barrel work, transfers, and bottling preparation
Ensure strict adherence to SOPs and hygiene protocols across all winemaking tasks
Act as the on-site lead in the absence of the Winemaker or Director of Wine, coordinating cellar staff and maintaining workflow continuity
Support the Winemaker in the execution of trials, blend preparations, and sensory evaluations, contributing technical input and tasting feedback
Perform laboratory testing and routine quality control checks to ensure wine integrity and consistency
Assist in the maintenance and cleanliness of winery infrastructure, including overseeing equipment upkeep and supporting the execution of minor repairs or servicing as needed
Proactively communicate progress, challenges, and resource needs to the Winemaker, ensuring smooth operation and timely task execution across all phases of production

Vineyard Operations:This role will actively contribute to all stages of the vineyard lifecycle, supporting the vineyard team in achieving fruit quality that aligns with the winery's standards, under the direction of the Vineyard Operations Manager.

Participate in pruning, shoot thinning, fruit thinning, and canopy management operations as required
Assist in maturity monitoring by collecting and preparing grape samples; perform crushing; and input data accurately into the shared reporting system
Support vintage readiness by ensuring appropriate volumes of picking bins are prepared and available ahead of harvest
Ensure all harvested fruit is weighed and recorded with accuracy and timeliness, contributing to traceability and yield tracking across all vineyard blocks
Maintain regular communication with the Winemaker and Vineyard Manager to ensure alignment between vineyard decisions and winemaking objectives

KEY REQUIREMENTS

Tertiary degree in Oenology, or currently studying
Understanding of winery operations and vintage experience
Vineyard experience, an advantage
Highly motivated and driven, with a proactive mindset
Meticulous attention to detail and precision
Ability to work autonomously and part of a team
Organised, with effective time management skills
Strong communication skills
Physically capable of performing cellar and vineyard tasks
Ability to work extended hours when required
Valid forklift and driver's licence

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