Viticulture Crop Technican Apprentice
Balfour Winery LLP · Staplehurst · posted 20 July 2026
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They will engage with modern technology, innovative growing techniques, and creative problem-solving, while monitoring vine health, and gaining practical experience in producing grapes for high-quality wines.
As a founding member of Sustainable Wines of Great Britain - achieving Gold status in the vineyard in 2026 -the apprentice role will also be supporting sustainability, biodiversity, and estate conservation initiatives.
We are seeking a motivated Viticulture Apprentice to join our vineyard team. This role offers hands-on experience in grape growing and vineyard management, combining traditional practices with modern technology, innovation, and creative problem-solving to support high-quality wine production.
Who you’ll be working with:
Viticulturist: A highly experienced viticulturist with over 30 years in grape and top-fruit growing, agriculture and estate conservation. They bring deep practical knowledge and a lifelong connection to the land. As a second-generation grower on the estate, they combine tradition with evolving practices, offering valuable mentorship, insight, and guidance to apprentices learning the craft.
Head of Production: 12 years of experience across viticulture, winemaking, and operations. Holding an MSc in Viticulture and Oenology and FACTS qualified advisor, they bring strong technical expertise, regulatory knowledge, and a focus on efficiency and innovation, supporting apprentices with practical insight all the way through to wine production.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with daily vineyard operations including pruning, training, canopy management, and harvesting
- Monitor vine health, pests, and diseases, reporting findings accurately
- Support soil management and fertilisation practices
- Operate and maintain vineyard tools and machinery
- Trial digital tools and vineyard technology (e.g., data collection apps, weather sensors)
- Contribute to innovative and sustainable viticulture practices
- Maintain records of vineyard activities and environmental conditions
- Work collaboratively with the vineyard team, liaising with the winery during harvest where required.
Learning & Development:
- Gain practical experience in all aspects of viticulture
- Develop knowledge of grape varieties and growing conditions in England
- Learn about sustainable and climate-conscious vineyard practices
- Build skills in agricultural technology and data-driven decision making
What We Offer:
Experienced and knowledgeable team for training and mentorship
Hands-on experience in a growing English wine industry
Opportunity to work in a leading vineyard with associated winery – all production of the product done on site.
Career progression within viticulture and winemaking
Skill required
- Strong interest in viticulture, agriculture, or wine production (previous experience desirable, but not required)
- Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Good physical fitness and ability to perform manual tasks
- Basic understanding of technology or willingness to learn
- Machinery operation desired (tractor, mowers, forklift). If no experience, a willingness to learn is required
Your training
You will be studying at Hadlow college one day per week.
Where it leads
- Vineyard Operator / Manager: Taking on more responsibility for day-to-day vineyard management, including pruning, canopy work, and harvest decisions
- Assistant Viticulturist: Progressing into a technical role focused on vine health, yield management, and data-driven vineyard decisions
- Viticulturist: Managing vineyard blocks or entire estates, making key decisions on grape production and sustainability
About Balfour Winery LLP
Balfour Winery is one of England’s leading wine producers, pioneers for both English traditional method sparkling wines, and a new wave of English still wines. Making over 400,000 bottles of still and sparkling wines each year, Balfour is one of England’s most respected and renowned wineries, combining world-class winemaking with a spirit of innovation.
Things to consider
- Ideally would need to be 18 or over
- Rural location – must hold valid driving licence as limited public transport
- Outdoor work – Majority of work will be outdoors, sometimes in inclement weather
- Seasonal peaks – Ability to work longer hours during harvest period or summer period as required (harvest September - October)
Skills they're looking for
Entry requirements
- GCSE English (grade 4/C or above) — essential
- GCSE Maths (grade 4/C or above) — essential
Where you'll work
- BALFOUR WINERY LLP, FIVE OAK LANE, STAPLEHURST, TONBRIDGE, TN12 0HT
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