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Enologist information

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$17

$22

$27

How much do enologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for enologist in the United States is $22.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an enologist do?

An enologist, also known as a wine scientist, specializes in the science of winemaking. They are responsible for overseeing the fermentation process, monitoring wine quality, and managing the chemical and microbiological aspects of wine production. Enologists work closely with viticulturists to ensure the grapes are suitable for the desired wine style and may also be involved in research, development, and quality control. Their expertise ensures that wines meet both industry standards and consumer expectations.

What are some common challenges an enologist faces during the winemaking process?

Enologists often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable fermentation conditions, ensuring consistent wine quality across different batches, and addressing issues like spoilage or contamination. They must carefully monitor chemical and sensory parameters, especially during harvest and bottling seasons when workloads can be intense. Effective collaboration with vineyard managers, cellar staff, and quality control teams is crucial to overcome these obstacles and produce wines that meet both regulatory standards and consumer expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an enologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Enologist, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, and viticulture, typically supported by a degree in enology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, wine fermentation equipment, and quality control systems is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with vineyard staff and ensuring wine quality. These competencies are vital for producing high-quality wines and maintaining the integrity and reputation of the winery.

What is the difference between Enologist vs Winemaker?

AspectEnologistWinemaker
CredentialsEnology degree or certification, specialized trainingEnology degree, hands-on experience, sometimes additional certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, wineries, quality control settingsVineyards, wineries, production facilities
Industry UsageFocuses on wine analysis, quality assurance, and process optimizationInvolved in wine production, blending, and overall wine creation

While both roles are integral to wine production, an enologist primarily focuses on analyzing and ensuring wine quality through laboratory work, whereas a winemaker is more involved in the hands-on process of creating and blending wines. The two roles often collaborate but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

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States with the most job openings for Enologist jobs include:

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Enologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Enologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Internship, and 50% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $46,471 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Harvest Enologist Intern

The Duckhorn Portfolio

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Title

The Duckhorn Portfolio is North America's premier luxury wine company. We were established in 1976 by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn. Today, our portfolio features some of North America's most revered wineries, including Decoy, Goldeneye, Calera, Kosta Browne, Sonoma-Cutrer and Greenwing.

This position will work with The Duckhorn Portfolio's Central Coast winemaking team to track fermentations, monitor trials, and record all data properly so that it can be used to make decisions that will improve the quality of the wines produced in 2026. This position will also support the grower relations and vineyard team by running all maturity analysis in our laboratory and report results accurately so the team can make the best pick decisions. Our ideal candidate must be detail-oriented, a self-starter with a strong work ethic, excellent communication skills and harvest experience. The estimated time frame for this position is August 24th through November 13th.

What we will ask you to do:

  • Manage all laboratory activities for grape maturity samples: process vineyard samples, run basic analysis (Brix, pH and TA), maintain equipment and supplies and track and share data
  • Track lab analysis from wineries: juice panels, daily Brix and temp and pressed wine analysis
  • Help Winemakers track and monitor fermentations at multiple custom crush facilities, paying attention to our protocols and/or R&D treatments
  • Maintain wine tracking software and winemaking spreadsheets
  • Evaluate grape loads and cellar activities as needed to ensure proper protocols are followed
  • Logistical support of Winemaker and Viticulturist and special projects as needed

What you will need:

  • Excellent organizational and time management skills
  • Positive attitude and willingness to learn
  • Ability to work independently and stay on task
  • Computer skills, including Excel and Winery Software experience preferred
  • Valid California driver's license and clean driving record
  • Previous harvest experience (lab or cellar) is required
  • Viticulture or Enology coursework or degree preferred

What we will provide:

  • The hourly range for this position is $22 - $24.
  • Seasonal Full-Time position.
  • Discounts on wine and merchandise.
  • Sick time accrual.
  • A diverse team of coworkers that care about each other in a fun, exciting work environment.
  • A company that promotes from within, provides great training and development programs and opportunities.

Apply