Company Description Karlo Estates is a Prince Edward County winery known for crafting rare, handcrafted wines using unfiltered, wild fermentations and traditional old-world techniques. The winery’s rich, full-bodied wines are served in an 18th-century barn tasting rooms. Guests can explore the vineyards, picnic at North America’s largest dry stone bridge, or enjoy wines by the glass with curated food pairings on a covered veranda. Karlo Estates has earned international recognition for its VanAlstine ports and Chardonnay, and its wines are available online, at the winery, and in top Ontario restaurants. The winery is open year-round with extended hours in the warmer months, offering visitors a distinctive and memorable wine experience.
Role Description The Wine Steward is a part-time or full time, on-site role based at Karlo Estates in Wellington, ON. This position focuses on guiding guests through tastings, explaining wine profiles, and recommending pairings that highlight the character of Karlo Estates’ wines. Day-to-day tasks include presenting flights, describing production methods and vineyard history, assisting with wine sales and order processing, and maintaining a welcoming, informative tasting environment. The Wine Steward also supports food and wine pairing experiences, handles basic setup and cleanup of tasting areas, and ensures that guests receive attentive, knowledgeable service. Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts may be required based on seasonal business needs.
Qualifications
- Strong knowledge of wine styles and wine pairing, with the ability to guide guests through food and wine experiences.
- Experience in wine sales or tasting room service, with a focus on guest education and building customer loyalty.
- Background in sommelier work or formal wine education (courses or certifications) considered an asset.
- Food & Beverage service experience in hospitality or restaurant settings, with attention to presentation and service standards.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage diverse guests and explain complex concepts clearly.
- Ability to stand for extended periods, lift cases of wine as needed, and work in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment.
- Reliable transportation to Wellington, ON, and flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and peak tourism seasons.
- Smart Serve or equivalent responsible service certification (or willingness to obtain) preferred.
