Overview:
Daniel’s Family Vineyard & Winery is seeking a passionate and experienced Winemaker & Vineyard Manager to lead our vineyard and production operations. Situated just outside of Fishers, Indiana, our 80-acre estate includes 22 acres of vines, a full production winery, and an award-winning tasting room and event space. This role is ideal for someone with both technical expertise and a hands-on approach to winemaking and vineyard care. You’ll oversee a talented team, including two full-time direct reports and three part-time assistants focused on landscaping and vineyard support.

Key Responsibilities:

Winemaking & Production:

Oversee all aspects of winemaking from grape to bottle, including fermentation, blending, aging, stabilization, and bottling.

Execute production plans aligned with business and seasonal needs, ensuring wine styles are consistent with brand identity and quality standards.

Manage custom crush projects and provide technical support to private label clients.

Vineyard Management:

Direct all vineyard operations including pruning, canopy management, pest/disease control, and harvest planning.

Monitor vine health, fruit development, and coordinate harvest schedules with the production team.

Collaborate with ownership and leadership on long-term vineyard development and sustainability initiatives.

Team Leadership:

Supervise and develop a vineyard and cellar team of five, including two full-time staff and three part-time support assistants.

Train and mentor team members to uphold best practices in viticulture and winemaking.

Quality & Compliance:

Maintain rigorous quality standards through lab testing, sensory analysis, and continuous process improvement.

Ensure all operations comply with federal, state, and local winemaking and agricultural regulations.

Equipment & Facility Oversight:

Oversee the care and maintenance of winemaking equipment, vineyard tools, and irrigation systems.

Coordinate facility readiness during harvest and bottling, ensuring safety, cleanliness, and efficiency.

Innovation & Brand Support:

Contribute to new product development, including limited-release wines, sparkling programs, and wine cocktails.

Represent the winery at tastings and events as needed; serve as a technical and brand ambassador.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Enology, Viticulture, or a related field (or equivalent hands-on experience).

5+ years of winemaking experience, with at least 2 years managing vineyard operations or in a dual-role capacity.

Proficiency in vineyard best practices, fermentation science, and cellar operations.

Demonstrated leadership ability and experience managing a small team.

Strong organizational and communication skills; ability to manage multiple projects and timelines.

Familiarity with winemaking software, lab protocols, and bottling line operations is a plus.