Cgtwines
Chateau Grand Traverse (CGT) is a pioneering family-owned winery with over 50 years of heritage, located on the scenic Old Mission Peninsula in Northern Michigan. Producing 80,000+ cases annually, we specialize in cool-climate vinifera wines—including Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Grüner Veltliner, Gamay, and regionally iconic Cherry wines. As we embark on a generational leadership transition, we’re seeking a transformative winemaker to lead our production team into the future.
Position Summary The Winemaker & Head of Production is a hands-on, strategic role overseeing all facets of wine production—from vineyard to bottle. This individual will join CGT’s leadership team and be responsible for winemaking, lab and cellar operations, vineyard planning, inventory oversight, and cross-functional team leadership.
You will lead a talented team across cellar, lab, vineyard, and production functions, unifying a historically siloed operation. The ideal candidate is both a seasoned winemaker and a systems-minded production leader with a passion for cool-climate viticulture and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities: Winemaking & Enology
Direct all winemaking activities from harvest planning to blending, aging, and bottling.
Lead stylistic direction across estate-grown and sourced fruit programs.
Balance artisan small-lot production with scalable commercial bottling.
Oversee QA protocols, sensory evaluation panels, and data-driven blending decisions.
Implement and enforce SOPs, safety protocols, sanitation, and compliance with TTB/state regulations.
Ensure equipment is fully operational and maintained.
Coordinate with vineyard team on ripening/harvest schedules, yield targets, and pest/disease control.
Analyze ripeness data (Brix, pH, TA, phenolics) to schedule optimal harvest timing.
Contribute to long-term sustainability, sourcing strategy, and varietal planning.
Production & Manufacturing
Lead the full lifecycle of wine production—bottling, barrel management, inventory movement.
Manage bonded/unbonded warehousing, raw material procurement, and logistics.
Drive accuracy across production tracking systems (Vintrace).
Quality Control & Lab Oversight
Supervise lab staff, ensuring product stability and specification compliance.
Troubleshoot product variance issues.
Strategic Planning & Financial Management
Define and monitor KPIs for yield, cost efficiency, and labor utilization.
Collaborate on annual production plans, capital improvements, and product development timelines.
Prepare and manage departmental budgets, P&L contributions, and resource allocation.
Lead and mentor cellar crew, assistant winemaker, lab team, and seasonal interns.
Establish a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Structure hiring, training, performance reviews, and staff planning.
Ideal Candidate Profile
5-10+ years of progressive winemaking leadership, ideally in cool-climate vinifera centered viticulture.
Proven ability to manage both boutique and volume-tier production.
Track record of leading cross-functional production teams and implementing scheduling/efficiency systems.
Deep understanding of vineyard–winery alignment and juice sourcing strategy.
Familiar with production forecasting, cost control, and wine business P&L management.
Comfortable representing the winery at trade events, industry conferences, and in collaborative tastings.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Enology, Viticulture, Food Science, or related field preferred.
Familiarity with Vintrace or similar winemaking software a plus.
Strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills; able to diagnose and solve equipment issues in a production setting.
Standard Physical & Environmental Requirements for Winemaking Roles
Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs. regularly
Comfortable working in cool, damp, or wet environments
Willingness to work in varying temperature conditions
Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb stairs/ladders for extended periods
Manual dexterity to operate valves, clamps, and production tools
Comfortable with repetitive tasks and periods of standing during bottling or lab work
Ability to safely use cleaning and sanitizing agents
Must be able to distinguish color, aroma, and taste profiles
Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
Ability to operate or learn basic forklift and pallet jack operation
Comfortable with early morning, weekend, or seasonal extended hours
Ability to use basic software and digital tools
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with 3% employer contribution
Paid time off and holidays
Executive-level influence in one of Midwest’s top wine programs
Why Join Us?
Lead the future of a top-tier cool-climate winery during an exciting leadership evolution
Work in a nationally recognized region with stunning freshwater coastlines, vibrant food culture, and unmatched four-season living
Be part of an independent, family-owned business with legacy and heart—yet the freedom to innovate
About the Area: Old Mission Peninsula / Traverse City, MI CGT is located just 8 miles from downtown Traverse City, one of the most celebrated small towns in America. The region boasts:
Nationally ranked as a “Best Small Town in America” (Condé Nast, Fodor’s, USA Today)
Waterfront lifestyle with access to freshwater beaches, kayaking, boating, and fishing
Four-season outdoor recreation: skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, biking, camping
Thriving local food, wine, arts, and music scene
Excellent regional healthcare system with multiple hospitals, clinics, and specialty care options
Top-rated schools and family-friendly amenities
Walkable downtown with farmers markets, shops, cafes, and cultural events
Regional airport with direct flights to major U.S. cities
A cover letter outlining your winemaking philosophy and leadership experience
A portfolio or list of wines you’ve overseen
All inquiries will be kept strictly confidential.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Position Summary The Winemaker & Head of Production is a hands-on, strategic role overseeing all facets of wine production—from vineyard to bottle. This individual will join CGT’s leadership team and be responsible for winemaking, lab and cellar operations, vineyard planning, inventory oversight, and cross-functional team leadership.
You will lead a talented team across cellar, lab, vineyard, and production functions, unifying a historically siloed operation. The ideal candidate is both a seasoned winemaker and a systems-minded production leader with a passion for cool-climate viticulture and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities: Winemaking & Enology
Direct all winemaking activities from harvest planning to blending, aging, and bottling.
Lead stylistic direction across estate-grown and sourced fruit programs.
Balance artisan small-lot production with scalable commercial bottling.
Oversee QA protocols, sensory evaluation panels, and data-driven blending decisions.
Implement and enforce SOPs, safety protocols, sanitation, and compliance with TTB/state regulations.
Ensure equipment is fully operational and maintained.
Coordinate with vineyard team on ripening/harvest schedules, yield targets, and pest/disease control.
Analyze ripeness data (Brix, pH, TA, phenolics) to schedule optimal harvest timing.
Contribute to long-term sustainability, sourcing strategy, and varietal planning.
Production & Manufacturing
Lead the full lifecycle of wine production—bottling, barrel management, inventory movement.
Manage bonded/unbonded warehousing, raw material procurement, and logistics.
Drive accuracy across production tracking systems (Vintrace).
Quality Control & Lab Oversight
Supervise lab staff, ensuring product stability and specification compliance.
Troubleshoot product variance issues.
Strategic Planning & Financial Management
Define and monitor KPIs for yield, cost efficiency, and labor utilization.
Collaborate on annual production plans, capital improvements, and product development timelines.
Prepare and manage departmental budgets, P&L contributions, and resource allocation.
Lead and mentor cellar crew, assistant winemaker, lab team, and seasonal interns.
Establish a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Structure hiring, training, performance reviews, and staff planning.
Ideal Candidate Profile
5-10+ years of progressive winemaking leadership, ideally in cool-climate vinifera centered viticulture.
Proven ability to manage both boutique and volume-tier production.
Track record of leading cross-functional production teams and implementing scheduling/efficiency systems.
Deep understanding of vineyard–winery alignment and juice sourcing strategy.
Familiar with production forecasting, cost control, and wine business P&L management.
Comfortable representing the winery at trade events, industry conferences, and in collaborative tastings.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Enology, Viticulture, Food Science, or related field preferred.
Familiarity with Vintrace or similar winemaking software a plus.
Strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills; able to diagnose and solve equipment issues in a production setting.
Standard Physical & Environmental Requirements for Winemaking Roles
Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs. regularly
Comfortable working in cool, damp, or wet environments
Willingness to work in varying temperature conditions
Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb stairs/ladders for extended periods
Manual dexterity to operate valves, clamps, and production tools
Comfortable with repetitive tasks and periods of standing during bottling or lab work
Ability to safely use cleaning and sanitizing agents
Must be able to distinguish color, aroma, and taste profiles
Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
Ability to operate or learn basic forklift and pallet jack operation
Comfortable with early morning, weekend, or seasonal extended hours
Ability to use basic software and digital tools
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with 3% employer contribution
Paid time off and holidays
Executive-level influence in one of Midwest’s top wine programs
Why Join Us?
Lead the future of a top-tier cool-climate winery during an exciting leadership evolution
Work in a nationally recognized region with stunning freshwater coastlines, vibrant food culture, and unmatched four-season living
Be part of an independent, family-owned business with legacy and heart—yet the freedom to innovate
About the Area: Old Mission Peninsula / Traverse City, MI CGT is located just 8 miles from downtown Traverse City, one of the most celebrated small towns in America. The region boasts:
Nationally ranked as a “Best Small Town in America” (Condé Nast, Fodor’s, USA Today)
Waterfront lifestyle with access to freshwater beaches, kayaking, boating, and fishing
Four-season outdoor recreation: skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, biking, camping
Thriving local food, wine, arts, and music scene
Excellent regional healthcare system with multiple hospitals, clinics, and specialty care options
Top-rated schools and family-friendly amenities
Walkable downtown with farmers markets, shops, cafes, and cultural events
Regional airport with direct flights to major U.S. cities
A cover letter outlining your winemaking philosophy and leadership experience
A portfolio or list of wines you’ve overseen
All inquiries will be kept strictly confidential.
#J-18808-Ljbffr