Wine & Beverage Program Director, Sommelier – Fine Dining Estate Restaurant

Job Category: Wine & Beverage
Job Type: Full Time
Location - City: Sonoma
Location - State: California

Sonoma, CA
Full-time | $90,000–$115,000 base

About the Role

We’re seeking a passionate and polished Wine & Beverage Program Director to lead the wine and service culture at one of our flagship culinary destinations in Sonoma County.

This is a hospitality-first leadership role for someone who blends deep wine expertise with genuine warmth, team mentorship, and a commitment to curating unforgettable guest experiences. You’ll oversee a dynamic and growing beverage program, train staff, and work closely with culinary leadership to ensure every pairing and pour is thoughtful and brand-aligned.

Your Core Focus

Program Leadership

  • Design and manage a beverage list that elevates the cuisine and guest journey—from global wines to thoughtful non-alcoholic options
  • Oversee purchasing, vendor relationships, inventory, and cost control measures to maintain a balanced and profitable program
  • Maintain cellar organization and ensure proper product handling and rotation

Guest Engagement & Service Standards

  • Provide high-touch tableside service and personal recommendations during peak hours
  • Build relationships with regular guests and collectors to enhance loyalty and sales
  • Ensure FOH staff delivers a consistent, informed, and gracious guest experience

Staff Training & Culture Building

  • Lead regular staff wine education sessions—from varietal deep-dives to pairing strategy and service finesse
  • Inspire confidence and continuous learning among servers and bar staff
  • Collaborate cross-departmentally to elevate hospitality standards across the property

Sales Strategy & Event Collaboration

  • Monitor wine sales performance and identify upsell and pairing opportunities
  • Support seasonal pairing menus, special events, and off-site tastings
  • Represent the restaurant in industry circles and community partnerships

What You Bring to the Table

  • 3–5+ years of wine program leadership in a fine-dining or elevated casual setting
  • Advanced knowledge of global wine regions, producers, vintages, and styles
  • Certification from CMS, WSET, or similar preferred
  • Natural communicator and mentor—able to lead service with grace and train others to do the same
  • Strong organizational skills and comfort with inventory and P&L oversight
  • Ability to lift 40–50 lb cases and navigate a fast-paced floor with ease

Perks & Benefits

  • Base compensation: $90,000–$115,000 depending on experience
  • Monthly performance bonus potential
  • Dining discounts across affiliated properties
  • Ongoing wine education and tasting opportunities
  • Supportive, tight-knit team with room to grow within the group

Location

This is an on-site leadership role based in Sonoma, CA—working at a chef-driven, destination restaurant set within a boutique wine estate.

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