Job Description
Job Description:
Winemaker – Custom Crush Specialist
Location: King City, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Company: Monterey Wine Company
Are you a passionate and experienced winemaker with a strong background in custom crush operations? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where innovation and craftsmanship come together? If so, we want you to join our team at Monterey Wine Company!
About Us
At Monterey Wine Company, we specialize in providing high-quality custom crush services, offering clients the expertise, equipment, and resources needed to produce outstanding wines. Our winery is dedicated to excellence, blending tradition with cutting-edge techniques to create wines that stand out in the industry.
Position Overview
Under the direction of the Director of Winemaking, the Winemaker – Custom Crush Specialist will oversee all aspects of winemaking operations for multiple clients, ensuring that each wine is crafted to the highest standards while meeting the unique needs of our partners. This position requires a strong technical background, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Key Responsibilities
• Custom Crush Management: Work closely with clients to understand their vision, goals, and winemaking preferences, ensuring seamless execution from grape to bottle.
• Winemaking Operations: Oversee all aspects of production, including fruit intake, fermentation management, blending, aging, and bottling.
• Quality Control: Maintain strict quality standards throughout the winemaking process, conducting regular analysis and sensory evaluations.
• Team Leadership: Supervise and collaborate with cellar and production staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Process Optimization: Implement innovative techniques and best practices to enhance efficiency and maintain the highest levels of quality.
• Compliance & Safety: Ensure all winemaking activities align with regulatory requirements, safety protocols, and sustainability initiatives.
• Client Relations: Serve as the main point of contact for custom crush clients, providing guidance, updates, and technical expertise.
• Reporting & Collaboration: Work closely with the Director of Winemaking to align winemaking decisions with company goals and client expectations.
Qualifications & Experience
• Proven experience in custom crush winemaking with a deep understanding of multi-client production.
• Degree in Enology, Viticulture, or a related field (preferred but not required with strong experience).
• Minimum of 5 years of winemaking experience, with at least 2 years in a custom crush facility or a high-volume production setting.
• Strong technical knowledge of winemaking, fermentation science, and quality control practices.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and client relationships.
• Hands-on leadership experience, with the ability to train and mentor cellar staff.
• Proficiency in winemaking software and lab analysis tools is a plus.
Compensation & Benefits
• Salary: $79,000 - $97,515 per year, depending on experience
• Benefits: Health insurance, 401(k), vacation time, professional development opportunities, etc.
Why Join Us?
• Opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients and wine styles.
• Access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.
• A collaborative and innovative team environment.
• A chance to shape and grow our custom crush program.
Note - Must have legal authorization to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position. Monterey Wine Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
If you're a detail-oriented, creative, and client-focused winemaker who thrives in a custom crush setting, we’d love to hear from you!
We look forward to welcoming a talented winemaker to our team! ??
Create a Job Alert
Receive an email alert when similar new jobs are posted. It's free, fast and easy.
Create Alert
Job Tags
Full time,