Job Description
Job Description:
ABOUT US
At Crow River Winery, we believe wine is more than just a beverage, it’s a way to bring people together. Located in the heart of Minnesota, we craft industry-leading wines, ciders, and cooking wines rooted in sustainable practices and our unique climate. Our mission is simple: We create community.
We are currently seeking a passionate and skilled Winemaker to join our team and lead our winemaking operations with creativity, care, and a commitment to quality.
POSITION SUMMARY
As our Winemaker, you will take charge of the entire winemaking process from grape to glass. You’ll be hands-on in growing, harvesting, fermentation, aging, blending, and bottling, ensuring consistency, quality, and innovation in every product. This is a key leadership role responsible for production oversight, lab analysis, compliance, and collaborative planning to support our growing product line and customer base.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
* Own all aspects of the winemaking process
* Determine optimal timing for grape harvest and collaborate with team for execution of harvest
* Process fruit: harvesting, sorting, crushing, pressing, etc.
* Manage wine fermentation, racking, clarifying, aging, blending, and bottling operations
* Conduct lab analysis and quality control tests; manage external lab testing when applicable
* Maintain bottle inventory and manage supplies (dry goods, packaging, other consumables, etc.) for production
* Keep detailed records to maintain compliance with company, state, and federal regulations
* Collaborate on wine blends and future product planning
* Monthly barrel management
* Own all aspects of the cidermaking process (in similar fashion as wine – from apple harvest to finished product)
* Follow and maintain standard operating procedures in cleaning and sanitation tasks to maintain equipment and environment cleanliness
* Lead winery tours/tastings, educational group events, and public/private Crow River Winery events as applicable
* Assist in shipping/receiving raw materials and finished goods
* Stay current on industry trends and drive innovation
* Create and manage production schedules and workflows
JOB REQUIREMENTS
* Knowledgeable and passionate about the winemaking and/or cidermaking process
* Highly organized with strong problem-solving skills
* Collaborative team player with excellent communication abilities
* Comfortable with physical demands (lifting up to 70 lbs ., working in various weather and terrain)
* Possess an acute palate and sensory skills for evaluating wine
* Hold a valid Driver’s License
* Detail-oriented with a strong sense of urgency
* Must be available to adapt to seasonal production shifts and periodic off-hour events, including being available weekends and evenings when needed
* Experience in inventory management and lab analysis; knowledge of state and federal reporting
* Proficient in Microsoft Suite and related production applications (i.e. InnoVint)
* Comfortable interacting with guests during tours or events
* Committed to sustainable, community-driven practices
* Bachelor’s degree in applicable field strongly preferred
* Formal winemaking/cidermaking education or training preferred
* Operation of forklift and bobcat preferred
WHY JOIN US?
At Crow River Winery, we live by our core values:
* Integrity – We lead with honesty and ethics
* Drive – We show up every day ready to work hard and improve
* Innovation – We embrace change and pursue better ways of doing things
* Stewardship – We care deeply for our land, partners, and industry
* Community – We collaborate and support one another
We offer a creative, inclusive, and passionate work environment where your talents are not only appreciated—they’re essential.
The base salary range for this job is $55,000 to $85,000. We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to the business. The salary offered will be determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge, and skills. In addition, our Total Rewards package includes medical and dental coverage, 401(k) plan with generous company match, and a Paid Time Off program. This position may also be eligible for performance and/or product quality incentive bonuses.
READY TO APPLY?
If you're an experienced winemaker, or an aspiring one with the right skills, who's ready to make your mark in Minnesota’s vibrant wine scene, we’d love to hear from you. Submit your resume and a cover letter detailing what interests you most about this opportunity
Learn more about us at
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Job Tags
Full time, Seasonal work, Shift work, Afternoon shift,