The Enologist position focuses on wine quality control and is a vital member of the winemaking team. Duties include: laboratory analysis of grape juice, must, and wine; organized record keeping in InnoVint winemaking database; evaluating data for trends and flagging deviations for winemakers; preparing trials & tastings; maintaining wine lab equipment & lab supplies inventory.
Essential Functions:
Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment: arrange for repairs, maintenance, and/or replacement when necessary.
Prepare and standardize chemicals.
Plan and execute routine analysis panels efficiently aligning with key junctures of the winemaking process and cellar activities.
Pull wine samples from tank and barrel in the cellar.
Perform or out-source detailed physical & chemical analysis monitoring the winemaking process: pre-harvest vineyard maturation (juice), fermentation/vinification, aging & pre/post-bottling; (e.g. sulfur dioxide, acidity (titratable, volatile, malic, pH, etc…), ethanol, sugar (Brix, glucose/fructose)) primarily via auto-titrator, Alcolyzer, FOSS & enzymatic methods.
Comprehensive data entry into InnoVint winemaking database, as well as reporting deviations and trends within the dataset to winemaking team.
Support quality control via sensory monitoring: identifying flaws or problems and contributing palate to winemaking team decisions.
Participate in prescribing additions and preparing work orders for cellar execution.
Prepare blending and fining trials.
Maintain clean and organized lab.
Maintain lab manual.
Support organization and inventory of enological supplies (physical and within InnoVint database)
Additional Functions:
Company safety training participation & policy compliance.
Necessary Skills:
Language: Intermediate English language proficiency required.
Math: Arithmetic & basic algebra skills as applies to calculating unit conversions, interpreting analysis results and determining add rates.
Logic: Flexibility to adapt to a dynamic routine, common sense, problem-solving, team collaboration & communication, strong work ethic and a convivial attitude will be valued.
Computer: Intermediate computer skills: Office suite applications, database adoption receptivity, tidy communication habits, conscientious of data security principles; familiarity with generative AI applications (e.g. ChatGPT) a plus.
Education, Experience, Certificates, Licenses:
BA or BS degree or 1-2 years relevant experience/training including chemistry coursework w/labs, or combination of education/experience.
Physical Requirements:
Manual dexterity, as well as gross motor skills & strength (occasionally strenuous) required for navigating a winery environment: lifting & moving 40+lbs, standing, walking & climbing.
Work Environment:
Indoors (lab & cellar) and occasional outdoor environments will subject worker to significantly variable lighting, temperature, ventilation and/or exposure to the elements.
Lab & cellar chemical exposure, and moderate noise levels typical of winery equipment will require vigilance & PPE (provided for all workers).
Schedule and Travel Requirements:
Variable schedule: 40hr/week (weekdays Nov-Jul), with additional weekend day & periodic evenings during the harvest season (~Aug-Oct) when keen flexibility will be essential and appreciated.
Position may entail occasional offsite errands & duties and travel to related winery sites and vineyards. No overnight travel required.
Boisset Collection is an equal-opportunity employer.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $26.00 - $28.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
Ability to Relocate:
- Santa Rosa, CA 95401: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person