Job Summary

We’re searching for an experienced, self-motivated and ambitious winemaker to join our team here at Austin’s.

Located in the Moorabool Valley, Geelong, this role will be responsible for leading and overseeing the entire production process of creating our esteemed wine portfolio.

From harvesting and blending to bottling and events - this role presents a unique opportunity for genuine end-to-end ownership of the winemaking process and the personal fulfilment of interacting with fellow wine-lovers who will truly appreciate your expertise.

About Austin’s + 6Ft6 Wines

Established in 1982, Austin’s Wines is one of Geelong’s most recognised wineries, combining originality with a clear regional style. With 160 acres under vine and 90+ acres being pinot noir, our vineyard on the rolling hills of the Moorabool Valley is well established and produces other stunning wines from its cool climate vineyard including riesling, chardonnay, pinot gris and shiraz.

We are a family owned and operated working winery made up of a small, driven and diverse group of people committed to creating, promoting and selling our product to customers across Australia.

Our culture is one that is down-to-earth, adventurous, welcoming and respectful; we strive for the highest standards both in the wines we produce and the people that belong to our amazing team.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead the creation of superior wines from the vineyard to the bottle.
• Manage the day-to-day winemaking operations in order to enhance quality control, efficiency and sustainability.
• Work closely with the viticulture team and winery contacts regarding grape growing to manage both quality and yield and coordinate the winemaking processes to improve overall quality and production efficiencies.
• Plan and organise all scheduling and logistical winemaking admin on a monthly and annual basis.
• Work alongside Austin’s Managing Director during evaluation and tasting stages, making appropriate recommendations on treatments and analysis.
• Run our contract bottling line whilst seeking and building relationships with external winemakers to grow this side of our business.
• Assist with winemaking related events and programs including our highly successful Rent a Vine and cellar door activities.
• Be involved in the marketing and sales activities of the wine business.

Who are we looking for?

A commercially minded and customer focused winemaker with a broad spectrum of industry knowledge, skills and experience.

Confidence and initiative to be curious and interact with the management team to bring forward solutions that are innovative and drive successful outcomes are also key qualities we’re looking for.

• 3+ years prior experience in a hands-on winemaking role and tertiary education with approved certification.
• Hands on viticulture experience will be an advantage.
• Knowledge of general viticulture, wine production and marketing regulations.
• Exceptional attention to detail and meticulous execution of processes.
• Demonstrated track record of achieving high-standards and quality results.
• Prior experience managing and coordinating cellar hands and vintage.
• Personable and great at building productive relationships both internally and within the wider wine-community in the region.
• Willingness to think outside the box and courage to be bold and innovative.
• Naturally one to take accountability and ownership.

This is the perfect opportunity for someone with the confidence and enthusiasm to make the role their own and who is keen to have a genuine impact as part of our small, high performing team. A competitive salary, loads of autonomy and a chance to make a valued contribution to the business and greater wine region are all on offer!

If you think you might be the pick of the crop for this role, then we’d love to hear from you!

Please send your CV with a cover letter providing the following detail:

• A short and sweet introduction to yourself; 
• Your top 2 reasons as to why you’d be ideal for this role; and
• Your favourite wine to produce and why.

For further information on the company, visit our website www.austinswines.com.au

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted so we thank you in advance for your interest in the role and taking the time to apply!

Best of luck!