‘Meet the Sommelier’ - behind every great wine list, there is a storyteller! In the world of fine dining, there is one role where every detail is curated to perfection, and it elegantly remains behind the scenes, pouring their influence into every glass. Sommeliers are more than just wine-tellers; they add to craft indelible culinary experiences. Whether you are a 5-star restaurant or building a top-tier hospitality team, hiring the right sommelier can make a huge difference! 

Job title - Sommelier (Wine Steward)

Job purpose 

Through their in-depth understanding of wines, spirits, and other beverages, sommeliers manage every facet of the wine and beverage program in restaurants, hotels, and other hospitality facilities, guaranteeing a superior guest experience. The sommelier is in charge of creating the wine list, suggesting food pairings for wines, teaching employees and patrons about wines, and delivering first-rate service that elevates the entire dining experience.

Duties and responsibilities

Wine Curation & Inventory

• Create, develop, and maintain a comprehensive wine list that pairs well with the restaurant's food as one of your main responsibilities.
• To reduce waste and guarantee product quality, keep inventory under control and maintain ideal wine storage conditions.
• Build a rapport with wine distributors and bargain over special offers, discounts, and prices.

Guest Engagement

• Engage with visitors to offer tailored wine suggestions according to their dietary requirements and tastes.
• Serve wine at tables in a polished, interesting way, making sure to follow the correct protocol and decanting when needed.
• To improve the visitor experience, host educational events, wine tastings, and pairing dinners.

Teamwork & Training

• Educate wait staff on proper serving methods, wine pairings, and food pairings.
• Create the ideal wine pairings for tasting or seasonal menus in close collaboration with the chefs.
• Work together with the beverage and bar staff to provide cross-category drinks (e.g., digestifs, fortified wines).

Operational responsibilities

• Keeping an eye on wine inventory levels, placing orders on time, and making sure purchases are economical.
• Establish and oversee wine-related sales targets, monitor results, and modify tactics as necessary.
• Verify adherence to all safety, hygienic, and licensing requirements.

Skills required

• Demonstrated expertise working as a sommelier or in a related wine-focused position in a fine dining or upscale hospitality setting.
• A recognised wine education organisation (such as the Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET, CMS, or an equivalent) has granted certification.
• Thorough understanding of winemaking methods, vintages, varietals, and wine regions around the world.
• Strong knowledge of wine and food pairings, encompassing both contemporary and regional cuisines.
• Outstanding interpersonal, communication, and guest service abilities.
• The capacity to inspire and train employees who are passionate about wine education.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or Hotel Administration.
• Additional coursework in Wine Studies, Beverage Management, or Food & Beverage Operations
• Preferred certifications include those provided by the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) and the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET).
• Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW), Certified Wine Educator (CWE).
• Experience in guest service, wine list creation, and team training (preferred)

Preferred attributes 

• Multilingual skills (especially French, Italian, or Spanish) are a plus.
• Knowledge of craft beer, spirits, and non-alcoholic pairings is beneficial.
• Experience organising wine events, tastings, or collaborations with vineyards.

If you are looking to hire a sommelier who will make a difference in your service delivery, then get started with Foodism Connect. Download the app now, make a profile and get in touch with suitable hospitality professionals.