The graduate trainee programme is a structured two-year scheme providing training and experience across all aspects of Vinescapes’ vineyard and wine production business delivery, vineyard modelling and establishment, winemaking (in the UK and overseas), research and data analysis, and both technical and strategic consultancy service provision.

The programme provides a much-needed opportunity for skilled and ambitious individuals from all over the world to work and learn from some of the most knowledgeable people in their fields.
Sarah holds a BSc in Viticulture & Oenology from Plumpton College and since graduating in 2022 has already gained vineyard and winery experience in Oregon, USA, UK and South Africa.

Peter Hayes, Global Wine Strategist and Honorary President, IOV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine) commented: “Having managed such a trainee programme I see huge value in this Vinescapes initiative and, beyond the appointee and Vinescapes, such value also extends to the industry at large. The contribution to development of industry capacity should be significant given the unique opportunity presented through the wide exposure to experience of colleagues, objectives of clients and their sites, and the industry at large. In my experience, the energy and attitudes of graduate trainees ensure that they engage with colleagues and associates to spread the knowledge acquired and to share the experiences.”

Dr Alistair Nesbitt, Vinescapes CEO commented: “There is exceptional ambition and skill amongst many new Viticulture & Oenology graduates around the world and this programme provides a fantastic opportunity to harness and nurture those talents. We want to attract the world’s best graduates to our business and support rapid career development through a mix of training, mentoring and exposure to a range of projects with some of the worlds’ top viticulturists, winemakers and production businesses. We are really delighted to welcome Sarah to the team as our first Graduate Trainee.

“The wine production sector is expanding rapidly across UK and Northern Europe but globally it is facing tough challenges. Our graduate scheme is designed to provide the high level of training, experience, knowledge and skills needed to support the future of wine production. . We have a team of experts with international experience, so it makes sense to share our knowledge.”

Sarah commented: “The graduate scheme is so much more than a training programme with loads of opportunities to learn the many different aspects of the industry as I develop my career. I have already had some remarkable highlights that have enriched my experience. I have been involved in addressing winery wastewater management to optimise and harness the value of wastewater sustainably. Another high point has been engaging in decision-making for planting new vineyards – from variety and clone selection to rootstock choices – every step is carefully considered in relation to site location and soil types. I am eager to make meaningful contributions to Vinescapes and the wine industry as a whole. It’s great that I can study for professional qualifications as well as gain experience.”

Vinescapes are looking to appoint further graduates to the scheme and have circulated details to educational institutions internationally. The details of the scheme and Sarah’s blog can be found on the Vinescapes website or contact graduate@vinescapes.com.