Sales Jobs in Buellton, CA

Position: Tasting Room Sommelier & Private Client Services

Reports to: DTC Director

Updated: Spring 2026

The Tasting Room Sommelier & Private Client Services role is responsible for delivering elevated guest experiences while supporting the winery’s broader Direct-to-Consumer initiatives through thoughtful relationship development and client outreach.

This is a guest-facing, relationship-driven role that blends front-of-house hospitality with behind-the-scenes engagement supporting membership and private client services. The individual in this role helps guide guests through the full Pence experience, from their initial visit to long-term membership and continued engagement with the winery.

A natural curiosity for wine and commitment to ongoing learning is essential. The ideal candidate is passionate about wine education, enjoys sharing knowledge in an approachable way, and takes pride in cultivating meaningful connections with guests.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Guest Hosting & Tasting Room Experience

The Tasting Room Sommelier plays a central role in creating thoughtful, engaging tasting experiences that reflect the Pence philosophy of hospitality.

Responsibilities include:

• Welcome and host both member and non-member guests in tasting room and member spaces, delivering engaging and personalized tasting experiences.

• Foster meaningful guest relationships that encourage wine purchases and membership enrollment.

• Prepare tasting room daily, including wine setup, collateral, and table presentation, ensuring alignment with established service standards and SOPs.

• Communicate the Pence story, estate vineyards, farming philosophy, and wines with clarity, professionalism, and authenticity.

• Guide guests toward Estate, Penny, and Library wines, including large format offerings, with the goal of elevating the experience and increasing average order value.

• Introduce and promote membership to qualified non-member guests, clearly communicating long-term value, access, and benefits.

• Collaborate with the hospitality team to achieve and exceed tasting room sales and membership goals.

Private Client Services & Membership Support

In addition to hosting responsibilities, the role supports ongoing client engagement efforts that strengthen relationships beyond the tasting room.

Responsibilities include:

• Support the Membership Manager and Private Client Services Manager with outbound and follow-up outreach to members and high-value guests.

• Conduct thoughtful post-visit communication through phone, email, or text, based on guest preferences.

• Maintain accurate guest notes, preferences, and interaction history within the CRM system.

• Identify high-potential guests for membership enrollment, allocation offerings, and future outreach initiatives.

• Assist with allocation releases, special offers, and member communications through targeted follow-up and coordination.

• Serve as an ambassador for the Pence membership experience, reinforcing consistent service standards across all guest touchpoints.

Operational & Team Responsibilities

The role contributes to the overall success of tasting room operations and supports team collaboration.

Responsibilities include:

• Assist with managing reservation requests through RedChirp and booking through the Tock platform.

• Participate in weekly educational trainings focused on wine knowledge, service standards, and guest engagement.

• Attend weekly staff meetings to review sales performance, membership activity, and guest feedback.

• Support daily tasting room operations and contribute to a professional and collaborative team environment.

• Perform additional duties as assigned by the DTC Director in support of DTC sales and hospitality operations.

Work Schedule

• Full-time position (five days per week)

• Weekend and holiday availability required

Professional Requirements

Viable candidates for this role should possess a combination of hospitality experience, wine knowledge, and relationship-building skills. Preferred qualifications include:

• Three to five years of winery service experience within a DTC-focused winery or comparable hospitality environment

• Strong wine knowledge required; WSET or Court of Master Sommeliers certification preferred

• Demonstrated commitment to continued wine education and professional development

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with a relationship-first mindset

• Comfort with guest outreach and follow-up communication

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

• Computer proficiency including Microsoft Office; experience with Commerce7 preferred

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic hospitality environment

Key “MUST HAVE” Personality Traits and Qualities:

• Warm and authentic approach to guest engagement

• Strong curiosity and passion for wine and hospitality

• Professional, poised, and attentive to detail

• Relationship-driven with a natural ability to connect with guests

• Self-motivated and accountable

• Collaborative team player who contributes positively to workplace culture

• Positive, upbeat, and service-oriented mindset

Remuneration

Hourly Pay:

$23.00 – $25.00 per hour

Additional Compensation:

• Sales commission

• Gratuities

• Membership sign-up bonuses

• Membership retention incentives

Benefits

• Health and dental insurance

• 401(k) plan

• Paid time off and paid sick leave

• Employee wine discounts

We’re offering a part-time opportunity for individuals who want to earn extra cash without disrupting their main job or studies. This role gives you the freedom to work from home at your own pace, learning simple ways to generate additional income.

No sales or special qualifications are required — only basic computer skills and a proactive attitude.

Responsibilities:

• Engage with provided training materials and follow clear steps

• Apply proven techniques to create small but consistent earnings

• Track your results and adapt based on your time and effort

• Communicate progress and feedback when requested

Requirements:

• Must be 18 years or older

• Basic internet literacy and access to a device

• Attention to detail and willingness to learn

• Self-discipline to manage flexible, independent work

Benefits:

• Work from anywhere

• No quotas or deadlines

• Ideal for students, parents, or part-time workers

• Opportunity to scale income with experience