A unique opportunity to lead the development of a high-end private estate winery in the Algarve with 11 hectars to start, Portugal, Albufeira area.
We are seeking an experienced international experienced resident winemaker to oversee all technical aspects of vineyard development and wine production, with the objective of producing world-class wines from a new Atlantic terroir.
Key Responsibilities
Winemaking & Production
* Full responsibility for winery setup, equipment selection, and operational workflows
* Management of all vinification processes (white, red, rosé; potential sparkling and experimental batches)
* Fermentation management (yeast selection, temperature control, extraction techniques)
* Blending strategy and sensory evaluation
* Barrel program design (oak selection, aging protocols)
* Quality control across all stages of production
* Cellar stock management
Viticulture & Estate Development
* Collaboration on vineyard design, varietal selection, and rootstock strategy
* Definition of viticultural practices adapted to Algarve climate (water management, canopy management, soil health)
* Implementation of sustainable / organic or regenerative practices
* Monitoring grape maturity and harvest planning
Technical Leadership
* Build and lead winery team (cellar staff, interns, harvest crews)
* Define SOPs, traceability systems, and production standards
* Budgeting and cost control for production
* Ensure compliance with Portuguese and EU wine regulations
Innovation & Positioning
* Develop a distinctive winemaking style aligned with premium/luxury positioning
* Explore micro-vinifications and innovative techniques suited to Mediterranean conditions
* Contribute to brand identity and storytelling
* Wine logistics and distribution channels, sales, and market segments
* Overviewing sales team, wine fairs, and product promotion
Candidate Profile
* Degree in Oenology / Viticulture / Agronomy
* Minimum 8 to 15+ years of winemaking experience
* Proven experience producing premium / fine wines
* Strong international exposure (multiple harvests or roles in different countries)
* Experience in warm climate viticulture is highly valued
* Solid technical knowledge of:
» fermentation kinetics
» phenolic extraction
» maturation and aging
»vineyard–winery integration
* Leadership experience in winery operations
* Fluent in English (Portuguese or Spanish is a plus)
What We Offer
* Leadership role in a new private estate winery from inception
* Competitive remuneration package
* Accommodation provided in the Algarve
* Long-term project with high-quality ambition and investment
* Opportunity to create a benchmark wine project in Southern Portugal
* Integration within a luxury hospitality ecosystem
Location
Algarve, Portugal – coastal Mediterranean climate with strong potential for premium wine production.
Application
Please submit:
* Detailed CV
* Cover letter
* Summary of wines/projects produced (including styles and markets)
All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality.
Passionate about Algarve.