French Wine Associate - Full-Time

Do you love wine? We do! Gary's Wine & Marketplace, owned and operated locally, is one of the largest brick-and-mortar and internet wine retailers in the tri-state area. Our stores offer one of the most extensive, competitively priced fine wine and cheese selections. We are well-known for our excellent, personable customer service and our knowledgeable wine staff.

The French Wine Associate will specialize in the French wine category, guiding customers with expert knowledge and helping them discover wines from the iconic wine regions of France. In addition to specializing in French wines, this role will support the sale of our full wine selection, assisting customers with varied wine preferences. This position is ideal for someone enthusiastic about French wines and committed to delivering outstanding customer service. Having a wine certificate is a plus.

Key Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement: Warmly greet customers, offer expert guidance on wine selections, and inform them of store events and tastings. Provide personalized recommendations, particularly in French wines, tailored to customer preferences.
• French Wine Expertise: Develop and maintain deep knowledge of French wines, including key producers, vintages, regions, and tasting profiles. Share insights on French wine history and varieties to enhance the customer experience.
• Sales and Promotion: Support overall wine sales with knowledgeable recommendations across all categories (not just French wines). Highlight priority wines, promote Gary’s Direct Wines and Wine of the Month, and help with accurate party order estimates.
• Display and Inventory: Keep the French wine section well-stocked and attractively displayed, ensuring cleanliness and organization. Update POS signage and shelf tags, monitor new vintage arrivals, and manage wine deliveries promptly.
• Gift and Gourmet Support: Assist with gift basket selections and cross-promote giftware and gourmet items for a complete shopping experience.
• Industry Knowledge: Stay informed on wine trends and French wine producers, participating in tastings and ongoing learning. Advise on food and wine pairings to elevate customer dining experiences.
• Tasting Events: Conduct tastings at our in-store counter, introducing customers to new wines in a clean, engaging setting.
• Inventory and Operations: Perform inventory counts as requested and assist with stock maintenance to ensure an organized and efficient store environment.
• Additional Duties: Carry out other tasks as assigned by management to support smooth store operations.

Requirements

Job Requirements:

• 3-5 years of experience in wine sales, with a strong focus on and passion for French wines
• Established a local client base and a drive to build relationships through community events
• Strong customer service and communication skills, with a talent for making genuine connections and providing tailored recommendations
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, contributing to sales across all wine categories
• Full-time availability, including weekends, some nights, and holidays; must be flexible with retail hours
• Energetic, organized, and self-motivated, with excellent attention to detail and follow-up skills
• Physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs. as needed

Benefits

We offer medical, dental, and vision benefits, a retirement plan with company contributions, and a generous employee discount. Retail hours include working on some weekends.​