The company

As a premium wine producer, Patrick of Coonawarra has the reputation of being one of Coonawarra’s finest. Our award winning wines, from family owned vineyards in Coonawarra and Wrattonbully, are well known for both their quality and consistency. Headed by winemaker, Luke Tocaciu, we use a mix of traditional and modern winemaking techniques in producing our unique range of wines with both regionality and personality.

Job Brief

As Viticulturist you will manage and oversee approximately 200 acres of premium vineyards within Coonawarra and Wrattonbully. Breakdown below:

Coonawarra – 60 acres of Cabernet across 3 vineyard sites, 20 acres Sauvignon Blanc, 8.5 acres Riesling

Wrattonbully – 50 acres Shiraz, 20 acres Cabernet, 12 acres of Merlot and Riesling, 7.5 acres Sauvignon Blanc, 4 acres Chardonnay.

You will work closely with the Winemaker to develop strategies to achieve quality and yield aspirations and have a hands-on approach to the implementation of these programs. Be given the opportunity to deliver new ideas and strategies to further improve our vineyard practices, quality and maintenance programs.

Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities

(But not limited to)

• Develop and implement vineyard operating plans for each vineyard/variety/wine styles including spray, irrigation and nutrition plans
• Carry out required vineyard and machinery maintenance and manual tasks as required
• Pest and disease monitoring and appropriate planning/procedures
• Work with the Winemaker to deliver production goals
• Be innovative and drive continuous improvement
• Set and develop budgets and operate within those budgets
• Keep records and analyse information
• Supervise and work closely with casual staff and contractors to achieve the desired results within quality of work and budget requirements
• Oversee, maintain and implement all relevant operational, HR, OH&S, HACCP procedural and legal requirements
• Effectively communicate with winemaker, management team, staff and contractors
• Represent the company at seminars/information days and keep up to date with modern practices and industry information

This is an exceptional opportunity to join a family owned and operated company with a portfolio of iconic brands. We expect you to embrace a fast paced, team oriented culture. In return, we offer a great experience in a dynamic and entrepreneurial environment.

To be considered for this position you should have/be:

• Relevant vineyard experience with minimum 3 years management history
• A passion to innovate, improve and succeed
• Excellent leadership and staff management skills
• Practical and hands-on with a strong mechanical aptitude
• Experience with vineyard machinery, irrigation systems and have appropriate licences/permits
• Excellent listening, negotiation and presentation skills
• Willing to work outside normal hours as needed during peak seasons
• Excellent communication and record keeping skills
• Proven ability to work cohesively within a small team

As the newest addition to the team, you will join a collaborative environment of highly motivated people. You will get exposure to a variety of areas within the organisation with the opportunity to be involved in a wide range of unique and challenging projects.

This is intended to be a full time position

Salary package is based on experience and includes car, phone and laptop

Applications close Friday 27th August.

Telephone enquiries can be made to Luke Tocaciu on 08 8737 3687 or email luke@patrickofcoonawarra.com