Sommelier Job Description Template

Use this Sommelier job description template to advertise the open roles for free using Longlist.io. You can use this template as a starting point, modify the requirements according the needs of your organization or the client you are hiring for.

Job Brief

We are looking for a Sommelier to act as our wine expert and create wine lists that pair with our food menus.

Sommelier responsibilities include recommending wine varieties to our guests, supervising wine serving and collaborating with winemakers to renew our selections and achieve better prices. To be qualified for this role, you should have relevant experience in hospitality or a vineyard and be available to work during business hours.

Ultimately, you will delight our guests by helping them choose the best wine to complement their fare.

Responsibilities

  • Create and update the wine list in coordination with chefs and the Food and Beverage Manager
  • Recommend food and wine pairings
  • Advise guests on wines based on their personal tastes and food choices
  • Inform guests about different varieties of wines and prices
  • Ensure wines are served at the right temperature and within the proper glassware
  • Store open bottles properly to maintain strong taste
  • Manage wine cellar and ensure it’s fully-stocked
  • Train wait staff on available wines
  • Negotiate purchase prices with vendors
  • Organize wine tasting days or “wine of the month” events
  • Ask guests for ID to verify legal drinking age
  • Comply with all health and safety regulations

Requirements

  • Experience as a Sommelier, Wine Steward/Stewardess or similar role
  • Ability to create tasteful food and wine pairings
  • Extensive knowledge of different wines and which regions produce each type
  • Knowledge of local vineyards and wineries
  • Understanding of the winemaking process
  • Good communication skills
  • Availability to work during opening hours, including weekends and holidays
  • Flexibility to travel occasionally to meet with wine producers and visit wine-tasting events
  • Certification as a Sommelier or degree in hospitality is a plus

What does Sommelier do?

A sommelier is a wine professional who specializes in the service and selection of wines. On a day-to-day basis, a sommelier's responsibilities can vary depending on their work environment, but here are some common tasks:

  1. Wine selection: A sommelier stays updated with current wine trends, researches and tastes new wines, and curates a wine list suitable for the establishment they work for. This involves evaluating the quality, flavor profiles, and pairing potential of different wines.

  2. Wine service: Sommeliers assist guests in selecting wines that complement their preferences and meals. They offer recommendations, describe the characteristics of various wines, and provide food and wine pairing suggestions. During service, they also open, decant, and serve wines properly.

  3. Wine training: Sommeliers often train other staff members on wine knowledge and service techniques, ensuring that the entire team is well-equipped to assist guests with wine-related inquiries or orders.

  4. Inventory management: Sommeliers often manage the wine inventory, monitoring stock levels, placing orders, and ensuring the proper storage conditions for wines.

  5. Wine education: Sommeliers continuously educate themselves about wines, regions, and producers. They may attend tastings, seminars, and workshops to further their knowledge and stay updated with the latest wine industry developments.

  6. Wine events: Sommeliers participate in wine events, tastings, and competitions. They may also organize and lead their own wine tastings, dinners, or special events to showcase different wines or highlight specific regions or styles.

  7. Customer relationship management: A sommelier fosters relationships with customers, listens to their preferences, maintains their wine preferences in a database, and creates personalized experiences to enhance customer satisfaction and build clientele loyalty.

It's important to note that while these tasks are common, the exact responsibilities can vary depending on the establishment a sommelier works for.