Concentrate Winemaker - Fresno

JOB SUMMARY   The Concentrate Winemaker is responsible for overseeing the production of grape juice concentrates and bulk juice products. This role manages formulation, fermentation, blending, and quality control to deliver consistent, scalable products aligned with brand, regulatory, and cost objectives.   The position combines enology expertise with high-volume beverage manufacturing operations, focusing on process standardization and continuous improvement.   ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS   Develop and execute concentrate production plans using grape juice. Reconstitute and standardize concentrates (Brix, acidity, tannin, alcohol targets). Create scalable formulations to meet product specifications and cost targets. Manage high-volume batching and blending operations. Design and oversee fermentation protocols (yeast selection, nutrients, temperature control). Monitor fermentation performance and make real-time adjustments. Ensure optimal alcohol development and flavor profile consistency. Conduct bench trials and blending experiments of concentrates. Lead sensory evaluations and maintain flavor consistency across SKUs. Collaborate with winemaking teams to align products with market needs. Implement and maintain quality control programs. Perform routine lab analysis (Brix, pH, TA, alcohol, SO₂, etc.) Identify and mitigate risks related to spoilage, contamination, or variability. Oversee cellar operations including tank management, filtration, stabilization. Ensure adherence to sanitation, safety, and SOPs. Partner with operations teams to optimize throughput and efficiency. Manage inventory of concentrates, additives, and production materials. Evaluate and work with concentrate suppliers. Optimize raw material usage to control costs and reduce waste. Maintain accurate production records and batch documentation. Ensure compliance with TTB, FDA, and local regulations. Support audits and regulatory reporting. Identify opportunities to improve product quality, consistency, and efficiency. Evaluate new ingredients, technologies, and production methods. Drive innovation in concentrate-based wine production.   QUALIFICATIONS   Bachelor’s degree in Enology, Food Science, Chemistry, or related field required. Advanced degree preferred. 5+ years of winemaking, beverage manufacturing, or related experience Experience with concentrate-based or bulk wine production strongly preferred. Experience in high-volume or industrial-scale production environments. Strong knowledge of fermentation science and wine chemistry. Experience with blending and sensory evaluation. Proficiency in laboratory analysis methods. Knowledge of concentrate reconstitution and formulation techniques. Data-driven decision-making. Strong attention to detail and quality orientation. Process optimization and continuous improvement mindset. Planning and organizational skills. Cross-functional collaboration. Effective communication (written and verbal). May supervise cellar staff, lab technicians, and production associates. Provides training, coaching, and performance management as applicable.   PHYSICAL DEMANDS   Ability to work at heights up to 45 feet. Possess the ability to work in a fast-paced environment under pressure. Working environment is both indoors and outdoors, with exposure to related equipment and noise levels. Ability to perform tasks requiring bending, stooping, standing, and twisting in a production environment.   COMPENSATION   Hiring Salary Range Posted: $107,000 - $160,400. Actual compensation will be based on factors such as experience, skills, knowledge and abilities, education, and other position-related factors.     At The Wine Group, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristic protected by law.   #LI-BH1