Sommelier Salary in Riverside, CA
Sommelier salaries in Riverside, CA, in 2025, are around $21.58 per hour, which breaks down to approximately $863.20 per week, $3,740.53 per month, and $44,886.40 per year.
The job market for Sommeliers in Riverside is growing at a rate of about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend with increasing demand for wine expertise in the area.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Riverside, CA?
Sommelier earnings in Riverside can vary based on experience, skill level, and employer type. The following table outlines salary expectations from entry-level through top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.58 | $863.20 | $3,740.53 | $44,886.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.83 | $1,393.20 | $6,024.40 | $72,278.40 |
Do Sommeliers in Riverside, CA Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn additional income through tips, typically receiving about $10 per hour in tips when working in fine dining or upscale establishments where wine service is a premium offering.
Sommelier Salary in Riverside, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers make an average of around $19.50 per hour, totaling approximately $40,560 annually.
Compared to the national average, Riverside Sommeliers earn a slightly higher hourly wage at $21.58 and a yearly salary of $44,886.40, which reflects the region's demand for skilled wine professionals and local cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Riverside for Sommeliers
Exploring nearby locations shows slight variations in Sommelier salaries:
- Downtown Riverside: $22.50 per hour
- Mission Grove: $23.00 per hour
The Mission Grove area tends to offer the highest pay, making it a desirable spot for Sommeliers seeking better compensation close to Riverside.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Riverside, CA?
Several factors can strongly affect how much a Sommelier earns in Riverside:
- Experience and Certification: More years on the job and prestigious certifications can lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels tend to pay better than casual venues.
- Wine Knowledge and Skill: Expertise in rare vintages, food pairing, and customer service adds value.
- Location within Riverside: Areas with greater tourism or corporate clientele often offer higher salaries.
How To Become a Sommelier in Riverside, CA
Becoming a Sommelier involves both training and real-world experience. Key steps include:
- Enroll in Specialized Programs: The Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) in Pasadena offers a Career Sommelier Program led by Master Sommelier Scott Carney featuring hands-on work with over 300 wines.
- Pursue Certification: The Court of Master Sommeliers provides a multi-stage international certification track culminating in the Master Sommelier diploma, the highest achievement.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in wine service roles or as an assistant to experienced Sommeliers helps build skills.
- Develop a Strong Palate and Knowledge Base: Regular tastings and study of wine regions can improve expertise and employability.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Riverside, CA
Some of the prominent businesses seeking qualified Sommeliers include:
- The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
- Mario's Place
- Duane's Prime Steaks & Seafood
Establishments That Sommeliers in Riverside, CA Work At
Sommeliers in Riverside typically find roles in a variety of hospitality settings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These tend to offer the highest salaries and opportunities for tips due to wine's prominence on the menu.
- Hotels and Resorts: Wine programs at luxury accommodations can mean better pay and more diverse responsibilities.
- Casual Restaurants and Wine Bars: Salaries here may be lower, but these venues can provide valuable experience.
- Specialty Wine Shops: Sommeliers often provide consulting and customer service, with earnings ranging widely depending on clientele.
The type and prestige of the establishment make a significant difference in compensation and job satisfaction.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Riverside, CA for Sommeliers
If you’re interested in other related hospitality careers, consider these similar roles that offer comparable opportunities and skillsets:
These include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender, all roles that overlap with wine and beverage expertise in hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Riverside, CA
Understanding labor regulations is crucial for Sommeliers.
- Federal website for labor laws and regulations covers important standards like minimum wage and overtime.
- California state website for labor laws and workplace regulations provides details specific to California employees.