Assistant Winemaker

Job Description
Nyetimber is a pioneering luxury brand and multiple award-winning English sparkling wine producer. Our story is one of many firsts; we were the first to pioneer the now-established style of English sparkling wine; we were the first to grow the renowned grape varieties Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier in England exclusively for producing sparkling wine; and the estate were our vines were first planted, was first mentioned in the Domesday book of 1086 by its then Anglo-Saxon name “Nyetimbraha”.
Quality is key to absolutely everything we do at Nyetimber and there is a constant strive for perfection. We produce exceptional sparkling wine, but always keep in mind that the reference to exceptional goes beyond wine, it extends to every touch point of the brand.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Assistant Winemaker to join our team. The Assistant Winemaker is a hands on role within the winery production team and will work closely and directly with the Senior Winemaker to ensure quality standards are met or exceeded for all of Nyetimber’s wines throughout the production process.
Responsibilities:
To assist with maintaining and enhancing the quality standards of the winemaking process from the reception of the grapes at the Pressing Centres to the completion of disgorgement ensuring to maintain quality standards throughout. A regular and consistent presence in the cellar on a daily basis is required.
To assist in maintaining all winemaking traceability activities (including but not limited to use of Vintrace and/or other software solutions).
To play a key role in the development of trials, new techniques and/or processes to enhance Nyetimber wine quality and winemaking resources.
To report regularly about daily staff observations, motivation, and quality adherence.
Keep watch on all standards of Health and Safety, as well as quality standards as set out in SOPRA’s on a daily basis. Where changes or revisions to SOPRA’s may be needed bring forward proposals.
To monitor and enhance quality assurance procedures and ensure the maintenance of winery records and the compliance of the product with current legislation and FSSC22000 accreditation.
To contribute as a member of winery HACCP team.
Assist in maintaining files for supplies needed and researching and if requested obtaining quotes for various winemaking-related goods and consumables in advance of relevant operations.
To take responsibility for ensuring good practice is followed with respect to financial matters including, but not limited to; finding cost-sensitive solutions; ensuring 3 quotes obtained on any purchases;
If requested, assist making first drafts of selected files related to annual budgets
To ensure all electronic and paper documents within your area of responsibility are kept organized and within company guidelines.
Being proactive in all parts of this role, including raising any discovered issues promptly, and coming with proposals
To undertake such other duties commensurate with the responsibilities of the role and any other reasonable management request.
Requirements:
A certificate or degree in Oenology/Winemaking from an accredited academic institution.
Minimum 3 years of experience as a cellar manager, or assistant winemaker (still wine is adequate) .
Understanding of wine analysis/lab results is essential
Experience in a lab is desirable
Sparkling Winemaking experience is desirable
Health & Safety experience is essential
Working to FSSC accreditation standards (or analogous) is desirable
The Nyetimber Experience:
Be a part of the world renowned English sparkling wine and multi award winning wine producer
Work for a true British heritage brand
23 days holiday
Generous staff purchasing privileges.
Excellent development, growth, and progression opportunities
Life Assurance
NHS Cash plan
Perkbox
5% Pension