Winemaker Resume Example and Template
A strong winemaker resume demonstrates deep knowledge of fermentation science, sensory evaluation, and production quality control. Include education in winemaking or enology, hands-on production experience, and any award-winning wines.
Winery owners and production managers look for winemakers who understand both the art and science of wine. They value consistency, creativity, and commitment to quality.
Also searched as
Head Winemaker, Assistant Winemaker, Cellar Hand
Daniel Fontaine: Winemaker
Napa, California, United States
Summary
Winemaker with 10 years of production experience in boutique and estate wineries. Expertise in fermentation management, oak aging, and wine blending across Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. Led 6 wine releases that earned 3 Gold medals and 8 90+ point scores; managed production from crush to bottling for 5,000+ cases annually.
Work Experience
Head Winemaker, Silverado Ridge Wines
Jan 2019 – Present. Estate winery, 45 acres, 12,000 case production
- Managed all winemaking operations from harvest planning through bottling
- Designed fermentation schedules and oak aging protocols for 8 wine programs
- Conducted daily tastings and adjustments; managed malolactic fermentation timing
- Led team of 3 assistant winemakers; trained staff on sensory evaluation and production protocols
Assistant Winemaker, Northern Sonoma Premium Wines
Aug 2016 – Dec 2018. Multi-vineyard winery, 8,000 case annual production
- Assisted head winemaker on 5 wine releases; managed fermentation monitoring and cellar work
- Conducted blending trials and sensory evaluations with winemaking team
- Maintained laboratory standards for pH, alcohol, and total acidity testing
- Supported barrel management, topping, and cellar sanitation protocols
Cellar Hand, Rutherford Valley Winery
Sep 2014 – Jul 2016. Family winery, 3,000 case production
- Performed cellar work including racking, barrel cleaning, and equipment maintenance
- Learned fermentation fundamentals through hands-on experience with multiple lots
- Assisted with harvest and crush; processed 300+ tons of grapes across 2 seasons
- Shadowed winemaker during tastings and received mentorship on production decisions
Education
University of California, Davis
Diploma, Professional Wine Enology. Jan 2014 – Jun 2014
Sonoma State University
B.S., Viticulture and Enology. Aug 2010 – May 2014
Skills
Fermentation management, Sensory evaluation, Wine blending and composition, Oak aging and cooperage, Laboratory analysis, Malolactic fermentation control, Production planning and scheduling, Cellar operations, Yeast and bacteria management, Wine stability and fining
Languages
English, French
Certificates and Awards
- Professional Wine Enology Certificate, UC Davis, 2014
Why this look works
Winemaking is both art and science. A sophisticated, balanced design that conveys quality and expertise works well. The layout should feel refined and evidence-based, reflecting the craft and precision winemaking demands.
Resume tips for this job
- Include specific wines you've produced and their recognition. Gold medals, 90+ point scores, and published tastings demonstrate your impact.
- Highlight fermentation and production specifics. Oak aging duration, malolactic management, and blending decisions show technical depth.
- Show your education prominently. A degree in enology or chemistry and UC Davis training add credibility and open doors.
Common questions
Do I need a degree in enology to be a winemaker?
A degree in enology, viticulture, or chemistry significantly helps, especially for head winemaker roles. Many winemakers start in cellar positions without degrees and work their way up while taking enology courses. Advanced education becomes more important as you advance.
What's the difference between a winemaker and an enologist?
A winemaker makes production decisions and manages overall quality. An enologist is a scientist who focuses on the chemistry and microbiology of fermentation. Many wineries employ both; some positions combine the roles.
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The person, employers and numbers in this example are fictional, written to show what a strong resume for this job looks like.