Sommelier Salary in Madison, WI
Sommeliers in Madison, WI, in 2026, earn approximately $31.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and $64,480.00 per year.
The demand for Sommeliers in Madison is experiencing positive growth of 5.4% per year, indicating a steady increase in opportunities and interest for this specialized role within the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Madison, WI?
The salary of a Sommelier in Madison varies depending on experience level and employer, ranging from entry-level to top earners within the field.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.00 | $960.00 | $4,160.00 | $49,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.00 | $1,520.00 | $6,573.33 | $78,960.00 |
Do Sommeliers in Madison Earn Tips?
Sommeliers generally earn tips, especially in fine dining and upscale establishments. They can make an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the volume and clientele of the restaurant.
Sommelier Salary in Madison vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of around $31.00 per hour, translating to about $64,480.00 per year.
In Madison, WI, the average hourly and yearly salaries for Sommeliers align closely with the national average, showing competitive compensation that reflects the local market and hospitality standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Madison for Sommeliers
When looking at nearby areas, Sommelier salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Madison: $32.00 per hour
- Capitol Square: $33.00 per hour
These neighborhoods offer marginally higher pay rates, possibly due to the presence of more upscale dining locations and greater demand for skilled Sommeliers.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Madison?
Several factors impact a Sommelier's salary in Madison:
- Experience and Certifications: More experienced Sommeliers with certifications like the Court of Master Sommeliers or Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) tend to earn higher wages.
- Skills and Knowledge: Expertise in wine varieties, regions, tasting, and pairings adds value to their role and earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and luxury resorts often offer better pay compared to casual dining venues.
- Job Responsibilities: Sommeliers who also manage beverage programs or are involved in purchasing and training may receive higher compensation.
How To Become a Sommelier in Madison
To pursue a career as a Sommelier in Madison, consider the following steps:
- Educational Programs: Enroll in programs like the Madison College Culinary Arts Program, which includes courses on wine studies, or the University of Wisconsin-Madison Continuing Studies Wine Appreciation Course to build foundational knowledge.
- Professional Certifications: Achieve certification through the Court of Master Sommeliers Certification or the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Certification to gain industry recognition.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in hospitality roles that allow you to develop wine service and customer interaction skills.
- Networking: Connect with local wine and hospitality communities to explore job opportunities and mentorship.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Madison
Madison's hospitality scene features several notable employers seeking talented Sommeliers:
- L'Etoile Restaurant
- The Madison Club
- Harvest Restaurant
Establishments That Sommeliers in Madison Work At
Sommeliers typically work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer the highest salary potential due to upscale clientele and wine program sophistication.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide stable employment and may include management responsibilities.
- Wine Bars and Specialty Shops: Can offer competitive pay and opportunities to develop expertise.
- Casual Dining: Usually pay lower salaries compared to fine dining but provide valuable experience.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly influence salary levels and tips potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Madison for Sommeliers
Those interested in similar hospitality careers might consider roles such as:
These include Bartender, Beverage Director, and Bar Manager positions, all closely related to the Sommelier role in beverage expertise and hospitality service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Madison
Sommeliers should be aware of both federal and state labor laws and tax regulations. Helpful resources include:
- On the U.S. Department of Labor federal website, find comprehensive information about federal labor standards.
- The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development state website provides details specific to Wisconsin employment laws and workforce regulations.