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Viticulturist

Also known as Vineyard Manager.

Viticulturists plan, supervise and coordinate the growing of selected grape varieties for the production of wine, dried fruit or table grapes.

Viticulturists spend a lot of time outdoors in vineyards, but also work indoors in laboratories, offices and grape processing facilities.

Knowledge of science and business management is increasingly important in viticulture.

TASKS

Viticulturists may perform the following tasks:

manage the operations of the vineyard, including soil management, irrigation, and disease and weed control
direct and oversee general growing activities such as harvesting and pruning
liaise with grape buyers and winemakers
monitor grape maturity to ensure their quality and calculate the correct time for harvest
recruit, supervise, manage and train winery workers involved in the production and harvesting of grapes
give guided tours, conduct tastings and advise visitors about various aspects of wine and grapes
keep records of techniques used and harvest outcomes for each season

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

interested in horticulture or agriculture
good analytical and problem-solving skills
able to make accurate observations
good communication and interpersonal skills
good organisational skills
flexibility and adaptability
enjoy outdoor work
willingness to live and work in regional areas
able to manage plant allergies and hay fever

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a viticulturist you usually have to study viticulture and oenology at university. Alternatively, you can become a viticulturist by completing a degree in science, applied science or agricultural science at university. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics and chemistry are normally required.

A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

The Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology provides technical information to members who work in the grape and wine industry.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

The majority of positions for viticulturists are in NSW, SA, Victoria and WA. Smaller wine industries are present in Queensland and Tasmania. Vineyards vary in size from small operations (sometimes family-owned) to large companies employing many people. You can gain experience by obtaining temporary or seasonal positions in a variety of grape-growing regions and countries.

Viticulturists with considerable experience can work as consultants to different wineries.