Slater Run Vineyards is a family owned and operated winery in Upperville, VA seeking a Winemaker. The position provides the opportunity to work with multiple white varieties including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Viognier, and Grüner Veltliner, as well as the red varieties Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. 13 acres of on-site vineyards provide the majority of the fruit for each vintage, with the balance sourced from other Virginia vineyards chosen by our Head Winemaker, Katell Griaud. Slater Run makes a range of wines, including: still and sparkling; stainless steel, French oak and amphora aged; traditional and no-sulfites added; orange and port style.

The position will focus on all aspects of the winemaking process from the receipt of fruit, processing, inoculation, and monitoring fermentation to racking, blending, and bottling. Additional responsibilities will include basic winery management, such as organizing equipment maintenance and maintaining production data files. The position requires the ability to work independently, as well as being able to supervise a Harvest Intern and other cellar hands, as needed. The winemaking and vineyard teams work closely with each other, and the winemaking team will be consulted on viticultural decisions that effect fruit quality throughout the year. Other responsibilities include maintaining relationships with custom crush and restaurant clients, as well as occasional tastings on and off-site. Strong communication and leadership skills are essential; Spanish language skills are a plus.

Responsibilities will be divided roughly as follows:

Cellar Operations - 65%
Admin - 15%
Vineyard - 10%
Sales & Promotion – 10%

This position reports to our Head Winemaker, who holds a Masters in Oenology from Bordeaux University and has 15+ years experience making award-winning wines in Virginia.

This is a full time position and will require a flexible schedule that will likely include nights and weekends at certain times throughout the harvest season.

Pay according to experience. Bonus program, 401K, health and vacation benefits.