Spirits Auction & Acquisition Expert

K&L Wine Merchants; Redwood City (CA); On-site; USD 126,000 - 154,000; Full time

Job summary

K&L Wine Merchants is seeking an Spirits Auction & Acquisitions Advisor to manage acquisition of rare spirits from private collections for consignment. You will source, authenticate, and value consignments, coordinate intake with operations, and set competitive reserves using market data across whiskey, Cognac, Armagnac, rum, and agave.

You may assist with wine collections as needed, selling to build repeat business.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of rare and collectible spirits across whiskey, Cognac, Armagnac, rum, agave, and related market trends.
• Familiarity with spirits authentication practices including bottle codes, closures, tax strips, and counterfeiting indicators.
• High attention to detail and accurate assessment of provenance, condition, and current market value.
• Insightful data analysis and using internal sales history with market data to set reserves.
• Strong computer skills (Office 365, Slack, and common shipping software).
• Ability to handle complaints and resolve conflicts professionally.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Flexibility to work early/late or varied days as needed.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with spirits consignors and collectors; serve as primary contact for sales.
• Source, evaluate, and secure spirits consignments through outreach and consultations.
• Assess provenance, condition, and market value; advise consignors on timing, format, and estimated returns.
• Authenticate bottles by examining labels, codes, closures, and packaging; flag counterfeits.
• Research distillery, bottler, release, and cask details to build accurate lot descriptions.
• Meet or exceed goals by developing new opportunities and optimizing existing relationships.
• Maintain exceptional customer service across communication platforms.
• Handle complex client interactions with diplomacy and problem-solving.

Skills

Spirits knowledge

Authentication practices

Attention to detail

Data analysis

Office 365 / Slack / shipping software

Conflict resolution

Written and verbal communication

Flexibility with schedule

Independent work / teamwork

Time management

Education

Professional spirits certification (WSET, CSS, Bourbon Steward)

Bachelor’s degree preferred

Job description

K&L Wine Merchants is seeking an Spirits Auction & Acquisitions Advisor to manage acquisition of rare spirits from private collections for consignment. You will source, authenticate, and value consignments, coordinate intake with operations, and set competitive reserves using market data across whiskey, Cognac, Armagnac, rum, and agave.

You may assist with wine collections as needed, selling to build repeat business.