Winemaker

/WINE-may-ker/

The person responsible for producing wine.

Full Definition

The winemaker (vinificateur, oenologue, cellar master) oversees all aspects of wine production - harvest decisions, fermentation, aging, blending, and bottling. Philosophy varies from interventionist (controlling every detail) to minimalist (letting terroir express itself). Many winemakers also manage viticulture; others focus solely on cellar work.