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Wine Spectator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sommelier

New York, NY

$11.35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

At the heart of the experience is an exceptional Italian wine program that has earned Wine Spectator recognition and the 2026 Star Wine List Gold Star for Best Italian Wine List in New York -- a ...

New

Sommelier at Saison - Two Michelin Stars, Wine Spectator Grand Award compensation:19.61 per hour plus service charge distribution employment type: full-time job title: Sommelier Saison Restaurant is ...

Sous Chef

New York, NY

$75K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Its exceptional culinary experience is complemented by an award-winning wine program, recognized with the Wine Spectator 2026 Award of Excellence. Located on the fourth floor of the flagship Louis ...

Chef de Cuisine

New York, NY · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Its exceptional culinary experience is complemented by an award-winning wine program, recognized with the Wine Spectator 2026 Award of Excellence. Located on the fourth floor of the flagship Louis ...

Manager

Glen Allen, VA

$55K - $65K/yr

  • Medical

  • PTO

Recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, we offer a diverse selection of Wines and Champagnes. Hondos presents casual, yet elegant dining perfect for any event.

Sous Chef

New York, NY

$75K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Its exceptional culinary experience is complemented by an award-winning wine program, recognized with the Wine Spectator 2026 Award of Excellence. Located on the fourth floor of the flagship Louis ...

Sommelier at Saison - Two Michelin Stars, Wine Spectator Grand Award compensation:19.61 per hour plus service charge distribution employment type: full-time job title: Sommelier Saison Restaurant is ...

... Wine Spectator Grand Award - is seeking a Back Waiter and Host to join our team. We are evolving fine dining restaurant culture and seeking individuals who are committed to excellence and interested ...

Manager

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

  • Medical

  • PTO

Recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, we offer a diverse selection of Wines and Champagnes. Hondos presents casual, yet elegant dining perfect for any event. Education:no ...

Restaurant Manager

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

  • Medical

  • PTO

Recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, we offer a diverse selection of Wines and Champagnes. Hondos presents casual, yet elegant dining perfect for any event. Education:no ...

Beverage Manager

New York, NY · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Its exceptional culinary experience is complemented by an award-winning wine program, recognized with the Wine Spectator 2026 Award of Excellence, and a thoughtfully curated craft cocktail program ...

Executive Sous Chef

New York, NY

$90K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Its exceptional culinary experience is complemented by an award-winning wine program, recognized with the Wine Spectator 2026 Award of Excellence, and a thoughtfully curated craft cocktail program ...

New

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Wine Spectator information

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$10

$19

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How much do wine spectator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for wine spectator in the United States is $19.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do wine critics get paid?

Wine critics are typically paid professionals who earn income through writing articles, reviews, and columns for publications, as well as through speaking engagements and consulting. Compensation varies based on experience, reputation, and the publication or organization they work for.

What are some common challenges faced by a Wine Spectator during the wine evaluation process?

Wine Spectators often encounter the challenge of maintaining objectivity while evaluating wines, especially when assessing products from well-known producers or regions. The role requires a keen palate and the ability to consistently identify subtle differences in aroma, taste, and texture across many samples in a single session. Additionally, adhering to strict tasting protocols and deadlines, while collaborating with other reviewers and editorial staff, can add pressure. Staying updated with industry trends and new wine releases is also essential for providing relevant and insightful reviews.

What is a Wine Spectator?

A Wine Spectator is typically someone associated with the publication 'Wine Spectator,' which is a renowned magazine covering wine ratings, reviews, industry news, and wine culture. The term can also refer to a person who evaluates, tastes, and reviews wines, often for publications or competitions. Wine Spectator magazine is especially known for its influential wine ratings and annual Top 100 Wines list. Professionals working for Wine Spectator often have extensive knowledge of wine, tasting techniques, and the global wine industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Wine Spectator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wine Spectator (such as a wine critic or taster), you need deep knowledge of viticulture, enology, and wine regions, often supported by formal certifications like WSET or Court of Master Sommeliers. Familiarity with wine evaluation tools, tasting sheets, and wine management databases is typical in this role. Exceptional sensory analysis, written communication, and attention to detail help professionals convey nuanced assessments and engage audiences. These skills are vital for ensuring credible, influential wine reviews and recommendations that shape consumer and industry perceptions.

What is the difference between Wine Spectator vs Wine Writer?

AspectWine SpectatorWine Writer
CredentialsWine tasting certifications, journalism experienceWine knowledge, writing skills, industry experience
Work EnvironmentMagazine, online media, eventsFreelance or staff, various media platforms
Industry UsageMedia, wine industry promotionMedia, wine industry commentary, blogging
Search & ComparisonPopular wine magazine roleWine journalism, blogging, critique

Wine Spectator is a renowned wine magazine that reviews and promotes wines, often employing certified wine tasters. A Wine Writer, however, is a broader term for individuals who write about wine across various platforms, including blogs, magazines, and newspapers. While both roles require wine knowledge and writing skills, Wine Spectator is more associated with a specific publication, whereas Wine Writers have diverse employment options. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career or job search focus within the wine industry.

More about Wine Spectator jobs

What cities are hiring for Wine Spectator jobs?

Cities with the most Wine Spectator job openings:

What states have the most Wine Spectator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Wine Spectator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Wine Spectator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Wine Spectator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Wine Spectator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $41,583 per year, or $20 per hour.

Sommelier

Babbo

New York, NY

$11.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

STARR Restaurants and James Beard Award–winning Chef Mark Ladner have reimagined Babbo — a storied Italian institution that helped define New York’s dining landscape.

Chef Ladner’s return brings a fresh perspective to the iconic restaurant, with a reimagined menu rooted in Italy’s rich regional traditions. At the heart of the experience is an exceptional Italian wine program that has earned Wine Spectator recognition and the 2026 Star Wine List Gold Star for Best Italian Wine List in New York — a distinction that recognizes Babbo as the city’s most outstanding destination for Italian wine.

The program is celebrated for its remarkable depth, featuring iconic producers from across Italy alongside thoughtful, discovery-driven selections and under-the-radar gems. For a Sommelier, Babbo offers the opportunity to work within a wine program that is not only highly acclaimed, but deeply focused on the breadth, diversity, and character of Italian wine.

If you are a passionate and knowledgeable Sommelier who thrives on creating memorable guest experiences through thoughtful wine pairings and warm, personalized service, this role is for you!
This position offers a comprehensive package including:

  • An hourly rate of $11.35 + tips
  • Paid Vacation and Sick Time
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits Coverage
  • Commuter Benefit Program
  • Referral Bonus Programs
  • Dining Discounts at over 25 Affiliated STARR Restaurants
  • The opportunity for career advancement and professional growth

Qualifications:

  • 2+ years of experience working with a quality-focused beverage program
  • Deep knowledge of European and American wines, with a strong emphasis on Italy
  • Knowledge of spirits, cocktail development, and modern mixology techniques
  • Familiarity with POS systems, inventory systems, CTUIT, OpenTable/Resy
  • Wine certification such as WSET, SWE, or CMS desired
  • A collaborative, team-oriented mindset with a desire for continuous learning and growth

Babbo is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

More detail about Babbo part of STARR Restaurants, please visit https://culinaryagents.com/entities/929484-Babbo