Sommelier Salary in Saint-Paul, MN
Sommeliers in Saint-Paul, MN, in 2025, 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 Saint-Paul is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities for wine experts and beverage professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Saint-Paul, MN?
The salary of a Sommelier in Saint-Paul depends on experience and expertise, but below is a general overview across different levels.
| 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 Saint-Paul Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips as part of their compensation, especially in fine dining establishments. On average, they can receive an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and clientele, significantly boosting their total earnings.
Sommelier Salary in Saint-Paul vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn about $31.00 per hour, equating to $64,480.00 annually.
The salary for Sommeliers in Saint-Paul, MN, aligns closely with the national average, indicating competitive compensation that reflects both the local market and the professional standards expected in this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Saint-Paul for Sommeliers
Nearby areas to Saint-Paul offer somewhat higher wages for Sommeliers:
- Downtown: $32.00 per hour
- Cathedral Hill: $33.00 per hour
Working in areas like Cathedral Hill or Downtown can provide Sommeliers with higher hourly pay compared to other zones, benefiting those willing to commute or work there.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Saint-Paul?
Several factors impact how much a Sommelier can earn in Saint-Paul, MN:
- Experience and Certifications: More experienced Sommeliers, especially those with certifications such as the Certified Sommelier by the Court of Master Sommeliers, can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants, upscale hotels, and exclusive wine bars often offer better compensation than casual dining venues.
- Skills and Knowledge: Expertise in wine regions, tasting, and pairing enhances a Sommelier's value to employers.
- Location: Salaries vary across neighborhoods and can be higher in central or affluent districts.
- Reputation and Networking: Established professionals with strong industry connections might access more lucrative opportunities.
How To Become a Sommelier in Saint-Paul
To embark on a career as a Sommelier in Saint-Paul, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Wine Education: Programs like the Certificate for Wine Professional at St. Paul College offer essential knowledge on viticulture, winemaking techniques, major wine regions, sensory evaluation, and marketing strategies tailored for hospitality professionals.
- Achieve Certification: Earning the Certified Sommelier certification from the Court of Master Sommeliers emphasizes wine knowledge, blind tasting, and service abilities, and requires passing a three-part exam.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in restaurants, wine shops, or hotels to develop skills in customer service and wine advising.
- Develop Palate and Knowledge: Continuously tasting, studying, and attending wine-related events sharpens a Sommelier’s expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Saint-Paul
Some of the notable establishments in Saint-Paul that hire Sommeliers include:
- The St. Paul Grill
- W.A. Frost & Company
- Meritage
- The Lexington
- Mancini's Char House
Establishments That Sommeliers in Saint-Paul Work At
Sommeliers typically find employment across various venues such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These often offer the highest salaries due to the sophistication and expectations involved.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Providing wine service to guests with high standards generally increases salary potential.
- Wine Bars and Tasting Rooms: These venues allow Sommeliers to interact closely with customers and may offer income through tips.
- Casual Dining: While less common, some casual restaurants have Sommeliers but typically pay less compared to upscale establishments.
The prestige and clientele of the establishment significantly impact a Sommelier’s earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Saint-Paul for Sommeliers
Those interested in similar or complementary careers may consider roles such as:
These include Beverage Director, Bartender, and Bar Manager positions, which involve expertise in beverage service and management, offering diverse career paths with overlapping skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Saint-Paul
Sommeliers should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Minnesota and federally:
- Refer to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (state website) for information on employment standards, wages, and workplace regulations.
- The Internal Revenue Service (federal website) provides guidance on taxes and reporting requirements relevant to Sommeliers.