Cellar Intern
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Job Description
About Company and Job Description
Trump Winery, Virginia’s largest vineyard, situated in the heart of the Monticello American Viticultural Area and part of the Monticello Wine Trail, is seeking a motivated Cellar Intern to join its award-winning winemaking team. The winery produces roughly 40,000 cases of wine per year, growing 12 varietals including Chardonnay, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Pinot Noir, Malbec, Semillon, Pinot Meunier, and Carmenere and currently producing 14 wines in our red, white, and sparkling wine programs.
Job Description:
This Cellar Intern position offers a comprehensive experience in the winemaking process, from grape to bottle. The intern will work alongside experienced cellar workers and a seasoned winemaker, gaining hands-on experience in various aspects of wine production.
Key Responsibilities:
• Clean and Sanitize: Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of winemaking equipment and the facility.
• Forklift Operation: Safely and efficiently operate a forklift.
• Barrel Work: Perform barrel work, including receiving, cleaning, preparing, racking, filling, and topping.
• Fermentation Management: Assist with fermentation management, including sampling, additions, and cap management.
• Communication and Record Keeping: Ensure timely communication with the winemaking team and maintain accurate records.
• Other Duties: Perform other duties as required to ensure the smooth operation of the winemaking department.
Timeline Of Responsibilities:
• Aug 1st – Aug 30th: White wine harvest. Processing chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, viognier
• Sept. 1st- Nov 10th: Red wine harvest. Processing Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec
Requirements:
• Basic understanding of cellar operations and a willingness to learn.
• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, flexibility, and ability to multi-task.
• Ability to work independently with some supervision.
• Ability to work long, variable hours during harvest, including overtime and weekends.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and work on one’s feet for 10+ hours a day.
• Ability to understand, speak, read, and write in English.
• Ability and desire to perform all job functions in strict adherence to company health and safety protocols, and in accordance with quality control standards.
Education and Experience:
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Bachelor’s degree in oenology/viticulture or related field preferred but not required.
• Beverage production experience is preferred.
• Experience with forklifts, presses, barrel work, or other cellar operations is a plus.
• Experience with basic wine chemistry analysis is a plus.
Additional Benefits:
• Opportunity to learn about other aspects of the wine industry, including vineyard visits during harvest.
• Forklift training available.
• Discount on wine, food, and merchandise.
• Opportunity to participate in employee wine training.
Wage: $16/hr – Housing is available for this role
Hours: Monday through Friday – Flexibility needed, including some evenings and weekends
Duration/Status: Seasonal – July 26th through November 10th
Trump Winery is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the E-Verify Program.
