Tasting Room Sales Lead at Rutherford Hill Winery – Rutherford, California

Title: Tasting Room Sales Lead

Reports to: Sr. Retail & Hospitality Manager

Status: Full Time, Non-Exempt (Benefits Eligible)

Location: Rutherford, CA

Job Description:

The Tasting Room Sales Lead is a key brand ambassador for Rutherford Hill and is responsible for providing guests top of class hospitality and customer service. This position ensures each guest has a memorable and exceptional winery experience, where the focus is on the brand story, customer service, wine education and sales, and wine club sign ups. The Lead works closely with both the Sr. Retail and Hospitality Manager and the Hospitality Manager to support the day-to-day operations of the Tasting Room.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Wine Education

• Lead interactive and engaging wine tastings, ensuring a memorable and educational experience for guests.
• Share detailed knowledge of our wines, winemaking process, and vineyard sustainability efforts.
• Assist guests with wine selection and purchases, offering pairing recommendations and insights.
• Uphold exceptional customer service standards, creating a welcoming environment for all visitors.

Tasting Room Operations & Sales

• Oversee daily tasting room operations, ensuring smooth service and an outstanding guest experience.
• Assist with inventory management, including stocking wine, glassware, and merchandise.
• Process sales transactions, wine club sign-ups, and reservations using POS systems.
• Meet and exceed sales goals by recommending wine club memberships and exclusive offerings.

Team Leadership & Training

• Train and mentor tasting room staff on wine knowledge, service techniques, and customer engagement.
• Ensure staff maintains winery standards in presentation, cleanliness, and hospitality.
• Support the Hospitality Manager with scheduling, event execution, and operational tasks.
• Ability to assist management with guest relations and problem resolutions.

Events & Wine Education Programs

• Lead private tastings, wine education classes, and VIP experiences.
• Assist in hosting winery events, dinners, and release parties.
• On occasion represent Rutherford Hill offsite for consumer and trade tastings, networking mixers, or outreach efforts.

Qualifications & Skills

• Wine Knowledge & Passion – Strong understanding of viticulture, winemaking, and wine service. Certification (WSET, CMS, CSW, or equivalent) is a plus.
• Hospitality & Sales Experience – Previous experience in a tasting room, restaurant, or wine retail setting preferred.
• Leadership Skills – Ability to train, motivate, and lead a team with enthusiasm and professionalism.
• Customer-Centric Approach – Strong communication skills and a natural ability to engage with guests.
• Tech-Savvy – Comfortable using POS systems, reservation platforms, and CRM tools.
• Physical Requirements – Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work weekends and holidays
• Must be at least 21 years in age

Perks & Benefits

• Competitive pay + tips/commissions
• Employee discounts on wine and merchandise
• Ongoing wine education and training opportunities
• Opportunities to participate in vineyard and winemaking activities
• Career growth in the wine industry