Jennifer White
Jennifer White is an accomplished Wine Director with over two decades of experience in the food and beverage industry, currently leading the wine program at J.W. Heist Steakhouse in Bozeman, Montana. Known for her exceptional expertise and passion for hospitality, Jennifer has curated one of the state’s most progressive wine programs, elevating every guest experience with her thoughtful pairings and dedication to excellence. Her leadership in beverage operations, wine education, and restaurant management has earned her recognition from peers and industry leaders alike.
Jennifer’s journey in wine began in San Francisco, where she discovered her passion while working as a server and completing her WSET Level 2 certification. Since then, she has pursued WSET Level 3 certification and the Italian Wine Scholar designation in Tuscany, Italy. Over the years, she has managed and developed wine programs for renowned establishments, including James Beard-nominated Macchialina in Miami and Thomas Keller’s Bouchon in Napa Valley. Her diverse experience spans fine dining, casual restaurants, and bar programs, giving her a deep understanding of both guest engagement and operational excellence.
Throughout her career, Jennifer has been recognized for her achievements and contributions to the hospitality industry. She received the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence in 2025 and was named one of Bozeman’s Most Inspiring Women in 2024. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jennifer is deeply committed to mentorship, education, and making wine accessible and engaging for future generations. Her approach blends creativity, hospitality, and empowerment, reflecting her belief that being a sommelier is not only a craft but a profound act of service and connection.
• WSET Level 3 Certified
• Italian Wine Scholar (IWS)
• Northwood University – Bachelor of Arts, International Business/Trade/Commerce
• Northwood University – International Business and Management
• Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence (2025)
• Recognized as one of Bozeman’s Most Inspiring Women (2024)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a genuine passion for wine and hospitality, a commitment to continuous learning, and embracing every opportunity to grow and refine my craft. Each experience, from bartending to leading fine dining programs, has shaped my skills and perspective.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I have received is to pursue mentorship and immerse myself in environments that challenge and elevate my abilities. Learning from industry leaders has been crucial to my growth and understanding of hospitality excellence.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women to remain ambitious, continually educate themselves, and embrace mentorship opportunities. Wine and hospitality are dynamic fields — approaching them with curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to learn will open doors and create lasting impact.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The wine and hospitality industry is highly competitive, with evolving consumer preferences and innovative beverage programs. The challenge lies in maintaining excellence while making wine approachable and exciting. At the same time, there are immense opportunities to mentor and inspire the next generation of hospitality professionals.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Passion, integrity, and education are central to both my professional and personal life. I value hospitality as a form of service and believe in creating meaningful experiences for guests, while also fostering growth and empowerment for those I mentor.