Estate Bartender

Estate Bartender

At Meadowood Napa Valley, we are committed to delivering the premier experience of California Wine Country cuisine through gracious hospitality, refined service, and a deep sense of place. Our Estate Bartenders play a key role in crafting memorable guest experiences by delivering exceptional beverage service across the estate, reflecting the highest standards of quality, creativity, and care.

The Estate Bartender is a hybrid role responsible for preparing and serving beverages across multiple outlets, including Terrace Caf, Forum, and Banquets. This position requires adaptability, strong technical skill, and the ability to elevate the guest experience through thoughtful, well-executed beverage servicefrom relaxed poolside cocktails to refined wine and spirit offerings in a fine dining environment. The Estate Bartender is both a craftsperson and host, embodying Meadowood's commitment to excellence while creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for guests.

Major Responsibilities & Work Activities

• Guest Experience
• Greet guests warmly and create a welcoming bar environment
• Engage with guests in a professional, knowledgeable, and personable manner
• Provide recommendations on cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic offerings
• Anticipate guest preferences and deliver personalized service
• Handle special requests and guest concerns with care and professionalism
• Maintain a visible, approachable presence at the bar and service areas
• Beverage Preparation & Service
• Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages according to Meadowood standards
• Execute service across all outlets:
• Terrace Caf / Pool: efficient, refreshing, and approachable beverage service
• Forum: refined, precise, and elevated cocktail and wine service
• Banquets: high-volume, consistent, and team-oriented service
• Maintain deep knowledge of:
• Classic and contemporary cocktails
• Wine (with emphasis on Napa Valley offerings)
• Spirits, beer, and non-alcoholic pairings
• Ensure accuracy, consistency, and presentation in every beverage
• Operations & Bar Management
• Set up and break down bar areas for service and events
• Maintain clean, organized, and fully stocked bar stations
• Monitor inventory levels and communicate needs to leadership
• Follow proper storage, labeling, and rotation procedures
• Accurately process orders and payments using POS systems
• Assist with glassware polishing and overall service readiness
• Team Collaboration
• Work closely with servers, captains, and kitchen team to ensure seamless service
• Support banquet and event execution, including bar setup and breakdown
• Assist teammates as needed during service periods
• Participate in pre-service meetings and ongoing training
• Compliance & Standards
• Adhere to all Meadowood policies and procedures
• Maintain knowledge of California liquor laws and responsible alcohol service
• Monitor guest alcohol consumption and ensure safe service practices
• Follow all safety, sanitation, and emergency procedures
• Protect company property and minimize waste and breakage
• Personal Characteristics
• Embodies Meadowood's core values: integrity, professionalism, and care
• Demonstrates the Relais & Chteaux 5 C's: Character, Charm, Calm, Courtesy, Cuisine
• Passionate about hospitality and beverage craftsmanship
• Detail-oriented with a strong sense of quality and presentation
• Adaptable and composed in both high-volume and fine dining settings
• Team-oriented with a positive, collaborative mindset
• Maintains a polished and professional appearance
• Experience Required
• Minimum 25 years of bartending experience
• Experience in fine dining, luxury hospitality, or high-end bar programs preferred
• Banquet or event bartending experience is a plus
• Education, Certifications, Licenses
• Ability to obtain:
• TIPS Certification
• California Food Handler Certification
• Special Skills & Abilities
• Strong knowledge of cocktails, wine, spirits, and beverage service techniques
• Ability to adapt service style across multiple outlets and guest experiences
• Excellent multi-tasking and organizational skills
• Ability to work efficiently in both independent and team environments
• Knowledge of Napa Valley wines and local offerings preferred
• Communication & Technical Skills
• Strong verbal communication skills in English (bilingual a plus)
• Ability to confidently engage and educate guests on beverage offerings
• Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with a diverse range of team members across departments and roles
• Familiarity with POS systems
• Strong cash handling and basic math skills
• Physical Requirements
• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Ability to lift and carry bar supplies (up to 25 lbs.)
• Frequent bending, reaching, and movement during service
• Schedule Requirements
• Flexible schedule including:
• Days and evenings
• Weekends and holidays
• Ability to work across multiple outlets based on business needs
• Compensation:
• Base pay $18.50 per hour + Tips + Service Charge.
• This is the rate Meadowood Napa Valley reasonably expects to pay. Final compensation will depend on factors such as experience, education, and other job-related qualifications.
• Benefits:
• 401(k) matching
• Employee discounts
• Vacation
• Sick pay
• Referral program
• Daily employee meals
• Uniforms
• On site parking
• Wine classes
• Meadowood is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. Meadowood is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. Please let us know if you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability.