Sales Consultant & Midwest Manager - Chicago, IL

Aquitaine Wine Company (AWC) is a distinguished importer, producer, and brand representative specializing in French wines, headquartered in Bordeaux with over 20 years of international presence across every US state, the UK, and Asia. AWC offers a unique portfolio that includes both renowned and artisanal brands alongside exclusive in-house labels, showcasing wines made by families with centuries-old traditions. The company prides itself on fostering deep relationships with these wine producers, providing not only exceptional portfolios but also granting an exceptional line of sight across the entire wine supply chain from vineyard to consumer. The company's presence in the Midwest is significant, supported by established sales bases, ensuring that new representatives are stepping into a thriving market rather than starting from zero.

The Sales Consultant role at AWC offers a rare opportunity to experience the full spectrum of the wine industry, far beyond the typical single-focus positions such as distributor sales or retail buying. This position will allow candidates to engage directly with winemakers, follow product flow through import channels and warehouse management, interact closely with distributors, and sell to a diverse range of clients including chain buyers, independent retailers, restaurants, and sommeliers. Additionally, the role includes pouring wines at tastings, training sessions, distributor events, and other consumer gatherings, emphasizing relationship-building at every level of the trade.

As a Sales Consultant, you won't be confined to preset routes or schedules; instead, you control your own territory management, relying on your initiative and ability to cultivate relationships to drive sales. Compensation is performance-based, rewarding activity and results with an uncapped commission structure alongside a base fee. Regular travel within the Midwest territory, sometimes requiring overnight stays, is essential, and engagement with clients during evenings or weekends is expected due to the nature of the wine trade.

One of the most compelling perks of this role is the personal connection to the wine producers. AWC organizes annual trips to vineyards in Bordeaux at their expense, allowing consultants to walk the historic parcels, taste in cellars alongside producers, and deepen their knowledge and appreciation of the wines they represent. This direct experience empowers consultants to speak about wines authentically and passionately, far beyond what could be learned from tech sheets alone. Moreover, the role offers a network-building opportunity by putting you face-to-face repeatedly with key players in the Midwest wine market, including buyers, distributor reps, and portfolio managers.

AWC is open to candidates early in their careers, with no prior wine experience necessary as comprehensive training is provided. Key traits for success include a drive to work in the field, excellent interpersonal skills to start conversations with strangers, the ability to manage your own book and set targets independently, and a curiosity about wine and learning French wine regions. This role requires a valid driver's license, reliable vehicle, and legal authorization to work in the United States. Candidates comfortable with frequent travel, including overnight stays, and the dynamic, sometimes unpredictable nature of the wine industry will thrive in this role.

This engagement is structured as an independent contractor role, not traditional employment. You operate your own business, manage your schedule, and cover your own taxes and certain expenses not reimbursed by the company. Benefits include coverage of transit, phone, and per diem costs, milestone bonuses tied to performance targets, and unparalleled access to sales managers, the CEO, and direct communication channels within the company. This role is ideal for self-motivated, outgoing individuals who prefer results-driven work environments and value direct client interaction and relationship-building in the vibrant and growing Midwest wine market.