Tasting Room Associate

Company Description

Long Shadows Vintners, founded in 2002 by Washington wine visionary Allen Shoup, who brought some of the world’s most celebrated winemakers to Washington State to craft distinctive, world-class wines. The winery focuses on showcasing the viticultural excellence of the Columbia Valley through single “best of type” wines under unique labels. Each label is carefully created by our founding winemaker Gilles Nicault, resulting in a portfolio that spans varietals such as Merlot, Syrah, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and blends.

The winery’s name honors the enduring impact these winemakers have on the global wine industry and reflects a commitment to benchmark quality and innovation. Long Shadows offers an engaging environment for team members passionate about premium wines and guest experiences.

The Tasting Room Associate is a part‑time, on‑site role based in Walla Walla, WA. This role is responsible for welcoming guests, guiding them through wine tastings, sharing key information about Long Shadows’ wines, story, and winemaking philosophy, and providing an outstanding visitor experience. Day‑to‑day activities include presenting and pouring wines, answering questions, offering recommendations, and promoting wine club memberships and direct‑to‑consumer sales.

The Tasting Room Associate helps maintain a clean, organized, and safe tasting environment, processes transactions, manages reservations, and supports special events as needed. The role involves working collaboratively with the hospitality team, following responsible alcohol service practices, and representing the brand professionally at all times.

• Demonstrated Wine Education and product knowledge, with interest in learning about Washington State wines and Long Shadows’ portfolio.
• Proficiency in Wine Sales and upselling techniques, including promoting wine club memberships and direct‑to‑consumer purchases.
• Strong Interpersonal Skills and Communication abilities to engage diverse guests, tell the winery’s story, and build lasting relationships.
• Proven Customer Service skills, with a focus on creating welcoming, inclusive, and memorable tasting experiences.
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, and flexible hours as needed, and to stand for extended periods and lift wine cases safely.
• Comfort with point‑of‑sale systems, basic computer skills, and accurate cash and card transaction handling.
• Previous tasting room, hospitality, or retail experience is preferred; familiarity with responsible alcohol service guidelines is beneficial.
• MAST and food handler’s permit current.
• Reliable transportation to Walla Walla, WA; curiosity, professionalism, and a passion for wine and guest hospitality.