Job Description

WINE SOMMELIER

Department: Restaurant Operations / Food & Beverage

Reports To: Restaurant Manager / Operations Manager

Employment Type: Full-Time

JOB SUMMARY

The Wine Sommelier is responsible for providing exceptional wine service and enhancing the overall guest dining experience through expert wine recommendations, food and wine pairings, and knowledgeable service.

The role oversees wine-related operations, including wine selection, inventory, storage, service standards, staff training, and wine sales. The Wine Sommelier works closely with the Restaurant Management and Culinary teams to ensure that the wine program is aligned with the restaurant concept and consistently delivers a premium guest experience.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Wine Service & Guest Experience

Provide professional and personalized wine recommendations based on guests preferences, menu selections, occasion, and budget.
Present, open, and serve wines according to proper wine service standards.
Explain wine characteristics, regions, vintages, and tasting notes in an approachable manner.
Recommend appropriate food and wine pairings to enhance the guest's dining experience.
Respond to guest inquiries regarding wines and provide knowledgeable recommendations.
Handle guest feedback and concerns related to wine and beverage service professionally.

Wine Program & Menu Management

Assist in developing, maintaining, and updating the restaurant's wine list.
Recommend new wines and selections based on guest preferences, restaurant concept, and market trends.
Monitor wine availability, vintages, pricing, and menu accuracy.
Coordinate with management and suppliers regarding wine selections, product availability, and special offerings.
Support wine tastings, wine dinners, and other wine-related events and promotions.

Inventory & Cost Control

Monitor wine inventory, stock levels, movement, and usage.
Ensure proper storage conditions and organization of wines in the cellar or designated storage area.
Conduct regular inventory counts and report discrepancies, damages, or potential wastage.
Support proper purchasing and cost-control practices for wines.
Ensure wines are properly stored and handled to preserve quality and consistency.

Training & Team Development

Conduct wine education and training sessions for restaurant service staff.
Train team members on wine knowledge, food pairings, wine presentation, and proper service techniques.
Assist the service team in building confidence when recommending and selling wines to guests.
Keep the team updated on new wine selections, promotions, and changes to the wine list.

Sales & Business Support

Drive wine sales through effective and appropriate suggestive selling and recommendations.
Support the restaurant in achieving wine sales and beverage revenue targets.
Identify opportunities to increase wine sales while maintaining a guest-focused approach.
Monitor wine sales performance and provide recommendations to management.
Support promotional activities and special events designed to increase wine awareness and sales.

Compliance & Standards

Ensure compliance with company policies, responsible alcohol service practices, and applicable regulations.
Maintain high standards of cleanliness, professionalism, grooming, and wine service.
Ensure all wine-related activities adhere to food safety, sanitation, and operational standards.
Perform other related duties as may be assigned by management.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Hotel and Restaurant Management, Culinary Arts, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
At least 2–3 years of experience as a Sommelier, Wine Specialist, Beverage Specialist, or in a similar role.
Experience in a fine-dining, premium restaurant, luxury hotel, or upscale hospitality environment is preferred.
Strong knowledge of wines, wine regions, grape varieties, vintages, and wine service.
Good understanding of food and wine pairing.
WSET, CMS, ISG, or other recognized sommelier certification is an advantage.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Excellent guest service and sales skills.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Ability to educate and communicate wine knowledge to both guests and restaurant staff.
Customer-oriented, professional, confident, and approachable.
Willing to work on shifting schedules, weekends, holidays, and special events.
Willing to be assigned to different restaurant locations as required.

KEY COMPETENCIES