Harvest Intern Cellar – SA Wine Graduate Placement

About the role

A leading South African wine producer in the Cape Winelands, a proud member of SA Wine, is looking for a Harvest Intern Cellar for the 2027 harvest season. This 6 to 12 month graduate placement is part of the SA Wine Graduate Placement Programme and gives Viticulture and Oenology graduates or final-year students hands-on exposure to large-scale wine production and vineyard operations.

Key responsibilities

• Assist with grape intake, sorting and processing during harvest
• Support fermentation management through routine monitoring and cellar operations
• Perform pump-overs, punch-downs, additions and other production tasks
• Take part in pressing, barrel work and wine transfers
• Carry out basic laboratory analyses and record production data
• Maintain cellar hygiene and follow food safety and quality standards
• Attend vineyard visits to learn about grape production and vineyard management

Required profile

• South African citizen under the age of 30; preference may be given to candidates from formerly disadvantaged backgrounds
• Final-year student, diploma holder or graduate in Viticulture and Oenology or a related field
• Previous harvest or winemaking experience is an advantage
• Availability to work overtime, shifts, weekends and public holidays during peak harvest
• Strong work ethic, good communication skills and attention to detail

What we offer

• Monthly internship allowance during the placement
• Exposure to one of South Africa's most established wine regions
• Structured workplace learning and mentorship from experienced winemakers
• Networking opportunities with wine production professionals

The placement starts mid-January 2027, is full time and requires extended hours during peak production. Applications are made online with an updated CV and a short motivation letter; only shortlisted candidates are invited to interview.