Enology Internship at Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello

Location: Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello – Santa Cruz Mountains, CA
Position: Enology Internship (1-Year, Full-Time, Fixed-Term)
Reports to: Winemaker
Dates of Employment: May 28th, 2026 – May 29th, 2027
Compensation: $23/hr., accommodation on-site and additional benefits provided

Join Our Passionate Team at Ridge Vineyards: Crafting Exceptional Wines, Connecting with Nature.

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking a highly motivated and dedicated individual for a year-long Enology Internship at Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello. This is an exceptional opportunity to gain valuable experience in a world-renowned winemaking operation from harvest to bottle. This role focuses on learning a wide range of laboratory analysis methodologies, cellar practices and winemaking techniques. The Enology Intern will be responsible for assisting in various aspects of winemaking, including but not limited to, quality control, routine laboratory testing, data collection, contributing to ongoing research projects, and supporting the winemaking team in daily operations. You will work closely with the Production team at our Monte Bello Estate in Cupertino, CA. You may occasionally be asked to travel to our Lytton Springs Estate in Healdsburg, CA. Ideal candidates will thrive in diverse and dynamic environments, from the vineyard to the cellar, and possess a strong commitment to upholding the ideals and objectives of Ridge Vineyards. The role requires individuals who are willing to work long hours, often in physically demanding conditions, and who are dedicated to contributing to the high standards of quality and excellence that Ridge Vineyards is known for.


RESPONSIBILITIES

Laboratory Analysis: Perform routine laboratory tests on must, fermenting wine, and finished wine (e.g., SO2, pH, TA, alcohol, and other key parameters). Ensure data is accurately collected, recorded, analyzed and communicated to the winemaking team.

Harvest & Winemaking Support: Assist in day-to-day winemaking tasks including, but not limited to, vineyard sampling, grape maturity analysis, fermentation monitoring, cap management (i.e. pump overs, punch downs).

Wine Maturation: Assist in monitoring the maturation process of wines in barrel including, but not limited to, barrel maintenance, wine transfers, barrel additions and topping, overseeing routine QC testing, and ensuring quality standards are met.

Bottling: Support the bottling process, including pre-bottling checks, quality control testing, and post-bottling analysis.

Record Keeping & Documentation: Maintain accurate records for laboratory analysis, wine quality control, and experimental trials. Ensure compliance with regulatory and internal quality standards.

Collaboration & Learning: Work closely with the winemaking team and other departments, gaining hands-on experience.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A genuine interest in learning about winemaking and laboratory analysis
Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately collect and interpret data
Highly organized and detail-oriented with a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
Excellent communication and teamwork skills, but can also work independently
Ability to lift 50lbs, stand, bend, and walk on a regular basis, occasionally climb ladders and catwalks
Maintain a regular, full-time schedule that includes overtime, weekends and holidays as needed
Hold a valid driver’s license and possess a clean driving record

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree (or current enrollment) in Enology, Fermentation Science, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, or related field
Prior lab experience, or familiarity with laboratory techniques
Spanish language proficiency

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

$23 hourly rate (with opportunities for overtime pay during harvest)
Housing on-site provided
Health benefits
Holiday and vacation benefits
Employee discounts on wine
Opportunities for growth and professional development in the wine industry
Opportunities to participate in wine tastings and events