Sommelier Salary in Charlotte, NC
In Charlotte, NC, Sommeliers in 2025 earn approximately $24.20 per hour, which amounts to about $968.00 per week, $4,194.67 per month, and $50,336.00 per year.
The job market for Sommeliers is currently experiencing steady growth at an estimated 5% per year, indicating positive demand for this specialized hospitality position in Charlotte and the surrounding area.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Charlotte, NC?
The salary of a Sommelier in Charlotte varies based on experience and venue, but the table below breaks down typical earnings by career stage.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.92 | $796.80 | $3,442.40 | $41,308.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.20 | $968.00 | $4,194.67 | $50,336.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.40 | $1,176.00 | $5,095.00 | $61,152.00 |
Do Sommeliers in Charlotte Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often receive tips as part of their compensation, typically averaging an extra $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment. This supplemental income can significantly boost overall earnings, especially in fine dining or upscale settings.
Sommelier Salary in Charlotte vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn around $19.70 per hour, which equals about $40,976 annually. Compared with these figures, Sommeliers in Charlotte earn a higher hourly wage of $24.20 and an annual salary of approximately $50,336.
This difference reflects Charlotte’s growing culinary scene and demand for expertise in wine and beverage service.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charlotte for Sommeliers
Within Charlotte, specific neighborhoods offer differing salary rates for Sommeliers:
- South End: $26.00 per hour
- Uptown: $25.50 per hour
Sommeliers working in South End may enjoy the highest salaries in the city, likely due to the area's vibrant restaurant scene and affluent clientele.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Charlotte?
Several factors can impact a Sommelier's earnings in Charlotte:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sommeliers with comprehensive wine knowledge and certification earn higher wages.
- Certifications: Holding credentials such as the Certified Sommelier by the Court of Master Sommeliers or WSET Level 3 Award in Wines can boost salary prospects.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, and exclusive wine bars tend to offer better compensation than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Location: Positions in higher-income neighborhoods like South End or Uptown can command premium salaries.
- Skills and Responsibilities: Sommeliers with management duties, event coordination skills, or inventory control have higher earning potential.
How To Become a Sommelier in Charlotte
If you wish to pursue a career as a Sommelier in Charlotte, several pathways can prepare you for the role:
- Sommelier Management Minor at Johnson & Wales University: This 15-credit program covers both wine and spirits management with courses like Foundations of Wine and Advanced Wine Studies, providing a strong foundation.
- International Sommelier Guild (ISG) Charlotte Classes: They offer sommelier certification courses at various levels, including online and classroom training opportunities.
- Certifications: Pursuing the Certified Sommelier by the Court of Master Sommeliers, which requires passing a rigorous three-part exam, is highly valuable.
- WSET Level 3 Award in Wines: An advanced professional qualification suited for wine experts and those looking to enhance their industry credentials.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Charlotte
Charlotte features a range of sought-after employers actively hiring Sommeliers:
- Sixty Vines Charlotte Southend
- Counter-
- Ritz-Carlton Charlotte
Establishments That Sommeliers in Charlotte Work At
Sommeliers typically work in various types of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues usually offer the highest salaries due to their emphasis on wine expertise and pairings.
- Upscale Hotels and Resorts: Luxury hotels like the Ritz-Carlton employ Sommeliers to elevate guest experiences, often with competitive pay and benefits.
- Wine Bars and Specialty Beverage Venues: These focused establishments value a Sommelier’s knowledge, offering solid compensation based on their role in enhancing the menu and customer satisfaction.
- Casual or Fast Casual Restaurants: Here, salaries tend to be more modest though opportunities to gain experience abound.
The variety of establishments allows Sommeliers to choose environments that suit their interests and salary expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charlotte for Sommeliers
If you are interested in careers similar to being a Sommelier, consider these related positions:
These include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender roles, which share elements of beverage knowledge, service skills, and hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Charlotte
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is important for Sommeliers working in Charlotte.
- The federal Department of Labor website provides comprehensive information on labor standards, including wage and hour regulations.
- For state-specific labor laws and employment regulations, visit the official North Carolina government website.