Vineyard Jobs in May: Spring Work Among the Vines

As spring warms the northern hemisphere, vineyards across Europe and beyond enter one of their busiest—and most beautiful—seasons. May is a vital month in the winegrowing calendar. It’s a time of rapid vine growth and intense hands-on work, offering seasonal job opportunities for locals, travelers, and wine enthusiasts alike.

Why May Matters

After bud break in April, grapevines grow quickly in May, pushing out shoots, leaves, and the first signs of fruit clusters. This period sets the foundation for the quality and quantity of the autumn harvest. Vineyard managers rely on seasonal workers to help guide this growth with careful maintenance.

Key Vineyard Tasks in May

Shoot Thinning: Workers remove extra shoots from the vine to improve air circulation and balance growth. This ensures the plant’s energy goes to the most productive parts.

Canopy Management: Leaves and shoots are trained along trellis wires to optimize sunlight and airflow. This prevents overcrowding and helps reduce disease risk.

Suckering: Vines often produce unnecessary shoots from the trunk or base. These are removed by hand to keep the vine focused on fruit production.

Tying and Training: New shoots may be gently tied to support wires to guide their growth and prevent damage from wind or weight.

Monitoring: Workers may assist with spotting early signs of pests or diseases and help apply organic or conventional treatments.

Where to Find Work

Vineyard jobs in May are common in:

• France: Bordeaux, Burgundy, Loire, Rhône
• Italy: Tuscany, Piedmont, Sicily
• Spain: Rioja, Catalonia, Ribera del Duero
• Germany & Austria: Mosel, Rheingau, Wachau
• Portugal: Douro Valley
• USA: California, Oregon, Washington
• Canada: Ontario, British Columbia

Many vineyards welcome international workers, especially those with a working holiday visa or farming background.

What to Expect

Work is physical, repetitive, and mostly outdoors. Days may start early to avoid midday heat. Pay varies by country and job type, often hourly or per task. Some vineyards offer housing or meals, especially for longer-term roles.

Final Thoughts

Vineyard jobs in May offer more than seasonal income—they provide a firsthand connection to the rhythms of nature and the world of wine. Whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding of viticulture or simply spend time outdoors in a beautiful setting, spring vineyard work can be a rewarding experience.