Viticulturalist

Viticulturalists plan, supervise and coordinate the growing of selected grape varieties for the production of wine. 

Viticulturalists may perform the following tasks:

• talk to winemakers
• conduct various laboratory tests to monitor the progressive growth of grapes, to make sure of their quality and calculate the correct time for harvest
• organise the crushing and pressing of grapes, the settling of juice and the fermentation of grape material
• supervise, manage and train winery workers involved in the production and harvesting of grapes
• manage the propagation and cultivation of the vineyard including soil management, irrigation, disease and weed control
• direct and oversee general growing activities such as fertilising and pest and weed control
• supervise the maintenance of the vineyard during the off-season
• give guided tours, conduct tastings and advise visitors about various aspects of wine and grapes
• keep records of techniques used and harvest outcomes for each season

Scientific knowledge is increasingly important in viticulture and some viticulturalists specialise in the research and development of grape varieties.