Job Description: Sommelier
Position: Sommelier
Department: Culinary Arts
Reports to: Head Chef
Job Summary:
The Sommelier is responsible for overseeing the wine program and providing exceptional wine service to guests in a hospitality and tourism setting. This role requires extensive knowledge of wines, beverages, and food pairings, as well as excellent customer service skills. The Sommelier will collaborate closely with the culinary team to create a memorable dining experience for guests.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Develop and maintain an extensive wine list to cater to diverse guest preferences and enhance the overall dining experience.
2. Provide professional wine service, including recommendations, pairing suggestions, and knowledge of wine regions, grape varieties, and vintages.
3. Conduct wine tastings and educate guests about different wines, their characteristics, and the wine production process.
4. Collaborate with the culinary team to create wine pairing menus, ensuring that the flavors complement and enhance the food offerings.
5. Manage wine inventory, including ordering, receiving, storing, and organizing wines to maintain optimal quality and availability.
6. Ensure proper wine storage conditions, including temperature control and inventory rotation, adhering to industry standards and regulations.
7. Train and educate the restaurant staff on wine service techniques, wine list knowledge, and proper glassware usage.
8. Assist guests in selecting wines that suit their preferences and budgets, providing exceptional customer service and ensuring guest satisfaction.
9. Stay updated with industry trends and new wine releases, attending wine tastings, seminars, and trade shows to expand knowledge and expertise.
10. Maintain strong relationships with wine vendors and suppliers to ensure a diverse and high-quality wine selection.
11. Collaborate with the management team to develop wine promotion strategies and implement marketing initiatives to increase wine sales.
Qualifications and Skills:
1. Proven work experience as a Sommelier or similar role in a fine dining establishment or luxury hotel.
2. In-depth knowledge of wines, spirits, and other alcoholic beverages, including wine regions, grape varieties, and vintages.
3. Strong understanding of food and wine pairing principles, with the ability to recommend suitable wines for different cuisines and flavors.
4. Excellent verbal communication skills, with the ability to confidently present and discuss wines with guests.
5. Exceptional customer service skills, with a focus on delivering personalized and memorable experiences to guests.
6. Strong organizational and time management abilities, with the capacity to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment.
7. Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with the culinary team to create harmonious food and wine pairings.
8. Attention to detail in wine storage, inventory management, and maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
9. Familiarity with wine service techniques, including decanting, corkage, and wine glass selection.
10. Ability to lift and carry heavy wine cases and stand for extended periods.
11. Certification from a recognized sommelier program or equivalent wine education is preferred.
Note: This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned based on business needs.