Sommelier Salary in Shreveport, LA
Sommeliers in Shreveport, LA, 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 Shreveport is growing healthily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and increasing opportunities for professionals in this specialized field within the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Shreveport, LA?
A Sommelier's salary in Shreveport depends on experience and expertise, but below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level for this role.
| 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 Shreveport Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often receive tips as part of their earnings due to their customer-facing role in upscale restaurants and wine bars. They can earn an extra $10 per hour in tips on busy or high-end shifts, which adds significantly to their base salary.
Sommelier Salary in Shreveport vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn about $31.00 per hour or approximately $64,480.00 per year.
The salary for Sommeliers in Shreveport closely matches the national average, with the hourly and annual rates aligning perfectly, reflecting the competitive nature of the hospitality industry in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Shreveport for Sommeliers
Nearby neighborhoods in Shreveport offer slightly varied salaries for Sommeliers:
- Downtown: $32.00 per hour
- South Highlands: $33.00 per hour
These areas typically have upscale dining establishments that can offer higher pay rates than other parts of the city.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Shreveport?
Several important factors can influence how much a Sommelier earns in Shreveport:
- Experience and Certifications: Seasoned Sommeliers with respected certifications tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and luxury hotels typically pay more than casual dining establishments.
- Specialized Knowledge: Expertise in rare wines and spirits or managing wine programs increases earning potential.
- Location within the city: Areas with affluent clientele often offer better compensation.
- Reputation and Networking: Building strong relationships in the hospitality and wine industries can lead to lucrative opportunities.
How To Become a Sommelier in Shreveport
Starting a career as a Sommelier involves several deliberate steps:
- Gain foundational wine knowledge: Consider formal education from organizations such as the Court of Master Sommeliers, which offers certification levels from Introductory to Master Sommelier.
- Complete advanced certifications: Examples include the Certified Sommelier credential by the Court of Master Sommeliers and the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust.
- Acquire practical experience: Work in restaurants or wine shops to develop customer service skills and wine expertise.
- Attend tasting events and network: Build connections in the local wine and hospitality industry.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Shreveport
Sommeliers seeking employment in Shreveport may consider applying to renowned local venues such as:
- Superior's Steakhouse
- Wine Country Bistro
- The Vintage Wine Bar & Spirits
Establishments That Sommeliers in Shreveport Work At
Sommeliers typically find work in a variety of settings, including:
- Fine dining restaurants: Often provide the highest salaries and opportunities for specialization.
- Upscale hotels: Employ Sommeliers to curate wine lists and serve guests.
- Wine bars and specialty liquor stores: These venues allow Sommeliers to engage with customers directly and share expertise.
- Casual or fast-casual restaurants: May employ Sommeliers but generally offer lower compensation.
Each type of establishment impacts both the salary level and the nature of the Sommelier's duties.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Shreveport for Sommeliers
If you're exploring career options related to the Sommelier role, here are a few that share similarities in skills and industry:
These careers include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender, all of which involve expertise in beverages and hospitality management, offering alternative pathways within the industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Shreveport
Sommeliers working in Shreveport should be familiar with both federal and Louisiana-specific labor regulations to understand their rights and obligations.
- Check the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on federal labor laws, wage standards, and workplace protections.
- Visit the Louisiana state government website for details on state-specific labor laws, employment regulations, and tax requirements.