Where Legacy Meets InnovationYour Dream Winemaker Role Awaits

Bundschu Company, home to Gundlach Bundschu, Abbots Passage, and more, is seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking Winemaker to lead production across our portfolio.

As a Regenerative Organic Certified winery with 165 years of history, we're looking for someone with practical winemaking leadership, strong business acumen, and a passion for crafting wines that reflect both place and purpose.

About the Job

This is a high-impact role in a fast-evolving company, with opportunities to drive innovation, mentor teams, and support this legacy's continued growth.

We're proud to be a Regenerative Organic Certified winery, committed to sustainability in practice, not just in principle.

Our company embodies the belief that quality wine and memorable experiences are deeply connected.

About Us

Since 1858, Bundschu Company has blended heritage with forward momentum, growing an intentionally small portfolio of wineries and brandsincluding Gundlach Bundschu, Abbot's Passage, GUNBUN, Bundschu Winery & Vineyard Services, and Huichica Music Festivalthat each uniquely carry on that spirit.

Honoring our legacy by continually investing in innovation, top-tier wine, unforgettable experiences, and the next generation of diverse leaders in the wine industry.

About the Winemaking Position

This is a unique opportunity to lead winemaking at a historic, yet forward-thinking winery, bringing craft, creativity, and commercial insight together in one role.

Oversight of the full scope of wine production from grape to bottle across our estate and partner vineyards, ensuring our wines embody excellence, innovation, and a strong sense of place.

A chance to help guide a storied brand into its next chapter, balancing heritage with fresh thinking to stay relevant and attract new audiences.

Key Responsibilities

Winemaking Leadership & Innovation

• Oversee all winemaking activities, from harvest planning to bottling, with support from ownership and our Consulting Winemaker
• Develop and refine wine styles across all Bundschu Co. brands, ensuring consistency, quality, and innovation
• Collaborate closely with vineyard partners to optimize fruit quality across multiple sites
• Introduce new winemaking techniques and wines that reflect evolving consumer preferences

Strategic & Brand Alignment

• Align winemaking approach with brand identity and company vision
• Contribute to strategic planning and long-term brand development with the leadership team
• Evaluate opportunities for custom winemaking, private label partnerships, and packaging evolution

Client & Custom Winemaking

• Lead our custom winemaking and bottling services, ensuring client satisfaction, operational excellence, and profitability

Quality, Compliance & Bottling

• Advance a robust Quality Management System aligned with ISO 9001 standards
• Oversee quality control, compliance, safety, and efficiency throughout production and bottling
• Partner with marketing to ensure packaging aligns with brand storytelling

Team Leadership & Operational Oversight

• Lead, mentor, and develop cellar and bottling teams, cultivating a culture of accountability, innovation, and ownership
• Manage production budgets and vendor relationships with a focus on efficiency and sustainability
• Participate in hiring, performance management, and equipment/facility planning
• Oversee asset management and fixed asset accounting for long-term financial health.

Market Presence & Brand Engagement

• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and hospitality to craft educational and promotional content
• Represent Bundschu Co. at events, tastings, and in-market appearances (46 trips/year)
• Serve as a brand ambassador within the broader wine industry

Requirements

Bachelors or Masters degree in Enology, Viticulture, or related field

7 years of experience in premium winemaking, including team management and custom programs

Demonstrated success in leading production teams, managing complexity, and building strong brands

Innovative mindset with strong business acumen and awareness of industry trends

Skilled communicator and collaborator, comfortable working across departments and with clients

PASSIONATE ABOUT REGENERATIVE FARMING, SUSTAINABILITY, AND BUILDING A LASTING LEGACY

Work Environment & Benefits

Bundschu Company offers a competitive and holistic benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and work-life balance, including:

• Medical, vision, and dental coverage
• 401(k) with company match
• Life insurance, FSA, and disability coverage
• Unlimited vacation time, holidays, and paid volunteer and birthday time off
• Wine and merchandise discounts
• A values-driven culture rooted in legacy, innovation, and community

We foster a workplace where ideas are welcomed, people are respected, and ambition is met with opportunity.

We're building something lastingand we're looking for smart, driven, collaborative individuals who want to build their legacy with us.