A BIT ABOUT AOTEAROA NEW ZEALAND FINE WINE ESTATES…
Founded on the long-held vision of creating a wine dream together, two friends began their journey in 2017 to craft impeccable wines and inspiring experiences they could share. They were honoured to take on Waikari Estate along with the legacy of Pyramid Valley New Zealand, a high-end Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wine brand, as part of Aotearoa New Zealand Fine Wine Estates (AONZ).
The Estate Manager and Winemaker has guided this new chapter of Pyramid Valley since 2018 when their story breathed a new chapter with the purchase of a new vineyard, Manata Estate in Lowburn, Central Otago. Across both sites biodynamic viticulture and a natural approach to winemaking create handcrafted wine that breathes of its place and tastes like nowhere else on earth.
Sanctity of place sits at the heart of Pyramid Valley’s grape growing and winemaking philosophy. Proudly, Pyramid Valley has partnered with Oritain and has obtained the world’s first origin-verified wines.
For more information on Pyramid Valley please follow this link https://www.pyramidvalley.co.nz/
THE OPPORTUNITY…
Based at Waikari Estate this is a pivotal role that makes a significant contribution to the overall success of the AONZ business. Primarily, the appointee to this role is to be responsible for managing the vineyard and viticulture operations, both owned and leased in North Canterbury.
Reporting to the National Viticulturist (in collaboration with the Estate Manager), the role involves all aspects of vineyard operations, requiring a focussed Vineyard Manager with a hands-on approach to keep the estate, the infrastructure, and equipment in their best condition. Ensuring all compliance, internal people/contractor management and external grower liaison and relationship management (South Island growers) relating to operational tasks are met comprise key responsibilities.
The entire Waikari Estate comprises 80 hectares including almost 6.5 hectares planted in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The vineyard comprises high-density, old-world viticulture with small plots of vines planted where the soils and aspect are just right.
A BIT ABOUT YOU…
We seek a Vineyard Manager and Viticulturist passionate about growing high-quality grapes who has a good wine knowledge and interest in all aspects of wine production & sales. You’ll need to demonstrate:
- At least 5 seasons’ practical viticulture experience and a relevant viticulture qualification.
- Ability to understand, interpret and apply scientific and technical information.
- Machinery operating and maintenance experience.
- Attention to detail, be highly organised and a practical problem solver.
- An ability to build great working relationships and adept at managing staff and external contractors.
- Strong computer skills for annual planning, budget preparation/ tracking, and record keeping.
- Good physical fitness and a flexible mindset to your work.
- Current Growsafe & Approved Handlers Certificate would be desirable.
- Current and clean driver’s licence and HT licence (desirable).
ON OFFER…
This is a unique opportunity to be associated with a high-quality brand recognised as the world’s first origin-verified wines and build on your biodynamic viticulture practice from an established winemaker who brings huge expertise and knowledge as well as from the Chief Viticulturalist from the wider group who visits monthly.
As part of the AONZ team you will receive ongoing mentoring to build your knowledge and five days paid professional development annually to align with your areas of interest. Your remuneration will be commensurate with your experience and includes an annual wine allowance and company vehicle, including personal use.
Join a successful and passionate team of people who craft impeccable wines and a growing wine company that has high ambitions in the fine wine world. Apply today!
FURTHER INFORMATION:
For further information or to apply, please visit https://t.ly/OAFB (if the link doesn’t work please copy it into your web browser) or give the Rural Directions team a call on 06 871 0450 for a confidential chat (Ref# 1089201).
Applications close Sunday 9th July 2023
Only job seekers who have NZ working rights will be eligible for this role.