Winemaker

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Work Tasks

WINEMAKERS direct and coordinate the overall wine production process, including the crushing, fermentation, clarification, aging, blending, and bottling. They examine grape samples to determine sweetness and acidity, to make sure the grapes are in good condition and have no pesticide residue, and to authenticate the variety of grape. They decide when to harvest the grapes and make sure the grapes are delivered to the crusher as quickly and safely as possible. They are responsible for blending the wines according to formulas. They supervise the bottling of the wine and look for ways to improve bottling techniques. They may direct research and experimental work and supervise bottling line quality control.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $86,000 average per year ($41.25 per hour)
• A medium occupation (143,300 workers in 2010)
• Expected to decline (0.8% per year)

Entry Requirements

Employers prefer to hire WINEMAKERS with a bachelor's degree specializing in enology. Some wineries will accept those with a major in another field, such as chemistry or food technology, if enology was included in the program. Training in business and public speaking will also be an asset. High school courses should include chemistry, mathematics, physics, and biology. Some wineries prefer to hire applicants with one to three years of experience in the wine industry. Summer work and internships in wineries during college help satisfy this requirement.