Quintessa is an estate nestled in the heart of Rutherford, where 160 acres of vines across 26 vineyard blocks within our 280-acre property, all farmed Organically and Biodynamically. Quintessa produces two wines: Quintessa, our red Bordeaux-style blend, and Illumination, our Sauvignon Blanc.
We are seeking passionate, hardworking, and detail-oriented laboratory intern to join our 2026 harvest team for a fully immersive experience across all aspects of production. Under the general direction of the winemaking team, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to become an integral member of the harvest team by becoming proficient in all harvest analysis performed in a lab and provide support to the cellar by preforming duties such as fermentation monitoring, additions, removing pomace and barreling filling. This role will flux between the two areas of responsibility as dictated by operational needs.
This is a full-time, seasonal position spanning from mid-August through late November. Applicants are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Hourly pay range of $22-$24, plus a one-time $600 sign-on bonus.
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Essential Duties |
Lab Duties - Perform fruit maturity analysis during harvest. Recording analysis, entering in data in a timely manner, and sharing results with Winemaker and Assistant Winemaker.
- Cluster weights
- Perform daily brix and temperature checks on all fermenting lots
- White juice analysis post-racking
- Complete all routine analysis under direction of Assistant Winemaker including Brix. pH and TA by wet chemistry and Malic, VA, RS by enzymatic analysis
- Perform Brettanomyces and Lactobacillus testing using the Invisible Sentinel
- Prepare reagents and standards
- Ensure that all equipment is properly calibrated
- Ensure that all analysis is performed accurately, according to SOP, and compare it against previous data
- Re-run analysis if results are not within specifications
- Complete lab analysis worksheets and provide analysis to Winemaker and Assistant Winemaker
- Pull accurate samples from the cellar tanks and barrels as needed for analysis
- Alert Assistant Winemaker to any potential issues either with the analysis or with any off-aromas or issues observed while sampling
- Ensures that the proper safety procedures in the lab are followed
- Maintain lab cleanliness and organization
- Maintain inventory of lab supplies and reagents
- When time allows, participate in tasting with winemaking team.
Cellar Duties - Harvest Responsibilities: - Assist in receiving and sorting incoming fruit.
- Sanitation of winery equipment
- Support in safely and efficiently loading the bladder press
- Assist in juice racking and juice movements to fermentation vessel
- Perform nutrient additions to must and ensure that they are noted on the fermentation card
- Yeast inoculations
- Assist in removing pomace.
- Help operate the basket presses and understanding the different press cuts
- Perform barrel filling, topping and stirring
- Record data and complete work orders
- Other responsibilities as needed
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Qualifications |
- Strong communication and organization skills
- Ability to prioritize work while adapting to changing priorities
- Experience running laboratory equipment
- Knowledge of and experience using relevant cellar equipment
- Ability to function independently with minimum supervision
- Great level of attention to detail
- Bring a positive work environment
- Self-motivated and team player
- Respectful
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Physical Requirements |
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, such as early mornings, and weekends, to accommodate the needs of harvest operations
- Ability to climb stairs and lift cases of wine, up to ~50 lbs.
- Requires the ability to sit bend, stoop, twist and walk over uneven surfaces for prolonged periods of time
- Ability to safely operate various machines
- Able to stand for long periods of time
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Company Overview |
The Huneeus Vintners family of estates is a collection of wineries and vineyards whose shared vision is guided by the founding philosophy of Agustin and Valeria Huneeus. This philosophy is defined by attentive farming and reverence for the land. The collective experience of our estate team members adds deep value to every Huneeus Vintners property, as we build long-lasting legacies together. Caring for our vineyards with the highest standards delivers fine wines from the most highly regarded growing regions in California and Oregon: Quintessa, Illumination, Favia, Faust, and Leviathan in the Napa Valley, Flowers Vineyard and Winery in the Sonoma Coast and Benton-Lane in the Willamette Valley. |
Equal Opportunity Employer |
Huneeus Vintners LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. |
