Total Wine & More is one of the largest independent wine retailers in the U.S., offering a range of opportunities for professionals in the retail and management sectors. If you’re considering a managerial role at Total Wine or are simply curious about salary trends, this article provides an in-depth look at the average manager salary at Total Wine in 2026, the factors influencing pay, career growth prospects, and how this compares with other retail and lifestyle jobs.
🧾 What Is the Average Manager Salary at Total Wine in 2026?
As of 2026, the average salary for a store manager at Total Wine & More ranges between $85,000 and $103,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and performance-based incentives.
Base Salary: $78,000 – $92,000
Bonuses/Incentives: $5,000 – $11,000
Total Compensation (Take-Home Potential): Up to $103,000+ annually
This makes Total Wine a competitive employer within the retail industry, especially for those with mid-to-senior-level retail management experience.
💼 Factors Influencing Total Wine Manager Salary
Several variables affect how much a manager can earn at Total Wine, including:
1. Experience Level
Entry-Level Managers (1–3 years): $70,000 – $80,000
Mid-Level Managers (4–6 years): $85,000 – $95,000
Senior-Level Managers (7+ years): $95,000 – $103,000+
2. Store Location
Salaries are generally higher in states with a high cost of living, such as California, New York, and Washington D.C., compared to smaller markets in the Midwest or South.
3. Performance and KPIs
Managers who exceed sales targets or improve customer satisfaction scores often earn performance bonuses and are first in line for promotions.
4. Education and Certifications
While a college degree is not always required, those with a Bachelor’s in Business or Hospitality or relevant certifications like WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) may earn more.
🏆 Comparing Salaries: Total Wine vs. Similar Jobs
Here’s how Total Wine manager salaries compare to other related roles in 2026:
| Job Title | Average Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| Peloton Instructor | $100,000 – $150,000 |
| SAP Consultant (Mid-Level) | $110,000 – $140,000 |
| Retail Manager (General) | $65,000 – $85,000 |
| Senior Lead Navigator (Auxano) | $95,000 – $120,000 |
| Latpen Test Engineer | $88,000 – $102,000 |
Although not in the same sector, comparing across professions highlights that Total Wine managers earn competitively within the retail domain, especially when bonuses are factored in.
📈 Job Market Trends and Outlook
The job outlook for Total Wine managers in 2026 remains positive, with continued expansion across the U.S. and growing consumer demand for curated wine and spirits experiences.
Key Trends:
Retail Personalization: Stores are hiring experienced managers to lead innovative customer engagement strategies.
Wine Knowledge Demand: Professionals with wine certifications or industry knowledge are favored in hiring and salary negotiations.
Leadership Growth: Internal promotion is common, making managerial roles a strong stepping stone for corporate roles.
🎓 Education and Certifications That Can Boost Your Salary
While Total Wine does not always require a college degree for managers, having relevant education or certifications can positively influence your salary:
Bachelor’s in Business, Retail Management, or Hospitality
WSET Certification (Level 2 or 3)
Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW)
Project Management Certifications (for aspiring regional or district managers)
💡 Benefits of Working at Total Wine
In addition to salary, Total Wine offers a range of employee benefits that add to total compensation:
Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
401(k) with Company Match
Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay
Employee Discount Programs
Tuition Reimbursement
Leadership Development Programs
Final Thoughts
Total Wine & More provides a well-compensated, stable, and rewarding career path for managers, particularly those with a mix of leadership experience, retail expertise, and wine knowledge. With salaries reaching over $100K in many locations and a strong benefits package, it’s a standout employer in the retail space.
Whether you’re an experienced retail professional or someone eyeing a career switch, a managerial role at Total Wine in 2026 offers both competitive pay and long-term growth potential.