Associate Winemaker

Peninsula Ridge is a world class wine and culinary destination catering to guests who are looking to pair a relaxed and casual atmosphere with an incredible experience. The property is stunning, with breathtaking views of the Niagara Escarpment, Lake Ontario including the Toronto Skyline and of course our pristine vineyards.

Position Summary

The Associate Winemaker supports the Head Winemaker in all aspects of wine production and cellar operations. This role is hands-on and leadership-oriented, encompassing harvest execution, fermentation management, quality control, regulatory compliance, staff supervision, and continuous improvement of winery operations in accordance with Ontario VQA, and AGCO standards.

Key Responsibilities

Winemaking & Production

• Assist in planning and execution of all winemaking activities from harvest through bottling
• Participate in grape maturity sampling and harvest scheduling in collaboration with vineyard partners
• Oversee fruit receiving, crushing, pressing, fermentations, racking, blending, stabilization, and finishing
• Monitor fermentations and wine development daily; make adjustments as required to ensure quality
• Participate in blending trials and support final blend decisions
• Coordinate bottling preparation, line setup, sanitation, and post-bottling quality review

Cellar & Operations Management

• Help manage daily cellar workflow and production schedules
• Maintain standard operating procedures, sanitation protocols, and workplace safety
• Ensure proper operation, cleaning, and maintenance of tanks, presses, pumps, and bottling equipment
• Assist in coordinating with suppliers and service providers for equipment servicing

Quality Control, Food Safety & Compliance

• Maintain winery sanitation and hygiene standards in accordance with Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA) guidelines
• Conduct and/or oversee basic laboratory analysis (Brix, pH, TA, SO₂, dissolved oxygen, etc.)
• Maintain accurate production records to meet VQA Ontario, AGCO, and Canada Revenue Agency (excise) requirements
• Support VQA audits, inspections, and documentation for wine approvals
• Ensure compliance with labeling, lot tracking, and traceability standards
• Assist in food safety programs such as HACCP or Preventive Control Plans

Vineyard Liaison

• Working with the Head Winemaker, coordinate with vineyard managers and grape growers on crop estimates, fruit quality, and harvest timing
• Participate in vineyard walks and provide feedback on viticultural practices affecting wine quality
• Support Ontario grape purchasing agreements and grower communications as required

Inventory, Logistics & Cost Control

• Assist with managing bulk wine, barrel, and dry goods inventories
• Track wine movements, blending records, and finished goods transfers
• Support coordination of bottling, storage, and off-site warehousing if applicable
• Assist with production planning to meet sales forecasts and seasonal demand

Health, Safety & Workplace Standards

• Promote a strong safety-first culture in compliance with Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act
• Ensure safe operation of all cellar equipment and adherence to WHMIS and confined space protocols
• Participate in safety training, incident reporting, and continuous improvement of safe work practices

Cross-Department Collaboration

• Work with sales, marketing, and hospitality teams to support product knowledge and staff training
• Participate in tastings, winemaker dinners, media visits, and industry events as required
• Contribute to new product development and continuous quality improvement initiatives

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Enology, Viticulture, Food Science, or related field
• Minimum 2–5 years of progressive winery experience, preferably in Ontario
• Strong understanding of cool-climate winemaking and hybrid/Vitis vinifera varieties
• Working knowledge of VQA Ontario, AGCO, and excise requirements
• Demonstrated leadership ability with experience supervising staff
• Strong organizational, record-keeping, and problem-solving skills
• Physically able to lift up to 25 kg, work extended hours during harvest, and perform cellar duties
• Forklift certification an asset (or willingness to obtain)
• Passion for Ontario wine, craftsmanship, and continuous learning

What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Opportunity to work in a respected Ontario winery with strong market presence
• Hands-on involvement in all aspects of production
• Supportive, professional team environment
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $43,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Company events
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• Store discount
• Tuition reimbursement

Work Location: In person