Cellar Supervisor

About Us

Tench Estate is a family owned vineyard and winery located in Oakville, Napa Valley. We specialize in producing ultra premium Cabernet Sauvignon. In addition to crafting our own estate wines, we offer custom crush services for select high end wines and their renowned winemakers.

We are seeking a skilled, motivated, and passionate Cellar Supervisor to take full ownership of day‑to‑day operations in a custom crush setting. This is a hands‑on role overseeing the execution of multiple winemaking styles, with a strong emphasis on excellence and quality. The Cellar Supervisor participates in all aspects of the winemaking process, from crush pad activities, fermentation management to winery maintenance.

Outside of harvest, this position works independently demonstrating initiative and organization. During harvest, the Cellar Supervisor takes on a more active leadership role, helping manage harvest interns, cellar workflow, and overall facility upkeep.

Cellar & Harvest Operations:

• Perform standard cellar tasks such as pressing, racking, topping, bottling, barreling down, and wine additions.
• Collaborate with the Production Manager to ensure quality of cellar operations meet the specific protocols for custom crush clients.
• Oversee the maintenance of cellar equipment and ensure its proper operation.
• Manage inventory, including bottling supplies and case goods, as well as the organization of new barrels received for harvest.
• Assist with grape processing, crush line set‑up, and ensure the orderly flow in the cellar.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment according to the highest industry standards.
• Operate forklift for material handling throughout the facility.
• Assist with loading and unloading fruit, cased goods, and transporting equipment as necessary.
• Proactively identify and implement improvements to cellar operations and facility procedures.
• Contribute to the development of innovative ideas to improve winemaking, operational efficiency, and facility management.
• Collaborate with the Production Manager and winery owners to track inventory, maintenance records, and barrel movements.
• Ensure the cellar team follows all safety guidelines and procedures, offering training as needed.
• Overseeing harvest weigh master duties and compliance.

• Supervise, train, and mentor cellar staff and harvest interns to ensure highest quality in winemaking and cellar operations.
• Work closely with the production manager to understand client‑specific requests and winemaking styles to ensure alignment with production goals.
• Plan and manage daily work schedules based on production needs, ensuring tasks are completed on time and efficiently.
• Regularly communicate with the Production Manager regarding workflow and any potential challenges.
• Review completed work orders for accuracy and quality, addressing discrepancies or concerns as needed.
• Assist in developing, reviewing, and implementing safety and cellar protocols.
• Assist with the hiring and scheduling of cellar staff and temporary labor as needed.

• A college or university degree or a combination of relevant education and hands‑on experience in winemaking.
• Minimum of 5 years of cellar experience, including at least 3 years in a premium winemaking facility with a strong understanding of high‑quality winemaking processes.

• Strong leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to direct and mentor cellar staff.
• Excellent communication skills for client interactions and team coordination.
• Ability to identify and resolve cellar‑related issues that may impact wine quality.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage workflows.
• Ability to work well under pressure and remain professional in dynamic situations.
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort with equipment maintenance.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities.
• Team player.

• Ability to regularly lift up to 50 pounds and work in varied conditions, including hot, cold, wet, or slippery environments.
• Comfortable working at heights, on ladders, and in confined spaces.
• Capable of working long hours and standing for extended periods.

• Fluent in English. Proficiency in Spanish is a plus.

• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Competitive salary and benefits package including comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance and with a pay range of $70,000 - $80,000 depending on experience.
• Wine allocation.
• Opportunities for ongoing training and professional development.