Keuka Lake Vineyards in Hammondsport, NY is seeking a harvest intern for the 2025 season. We are a small winery with estate vineyards on Keuka Lake, known for making some of the best wine in the Finger Lakes, specifically our single vineyard and Riesling blends along with outstanding Cabernet Franc, Blaufrankisch, and 3 French American hybrid varietals. We have a minimalist winemaking approach that allows the quality of the grape and the specific vineyards to shine. As a small winery, we provide an opportunity for the intern to work in many aspects of winemaking.

Position Overview

Start Date: Mid August
End Date: Mid to late November
Pay: $17 - $19/hour, depending on experience

Roles & Responsibilities

Assist in winemaking activities racking, inoculations, punch downs, fermentation checks, basic lab analysis and lots of cleaning!
Assist in the vineyard, as needed, sampling grapes for harvest decisions, along with hand harvest and sorting fruit.
Help processing the fruit as it arrives at the crush pad, destemming and pressing.
Operate pumps and other equipment as well as cleaning when finished.
Forklift experience and certification are a plus, but not required, but the ability to drive one is important.
Keep good records/notes of day-to-day activities.
Communicate clearly and effectively and collaborate with others.
Help with other aspects of the winery, as needed.

Qualifications

Previous experience is a plus but not required
Ability to work long hours, up to 7 days a week during peak harvest season.
Ability to maintain positive attitude during stressful periods
Ability to lift 50 lbs. and be on your feet a lot.
Forklift certification/experience or able to learn
Must be eligible to work in the U.S.

Other Information

Possible housing - Small studio apartment on premise.
Must be ok around dogs