Assistant Sommelier: Premium Wine Service & Pairings

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts; Knutsford; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Spa and golf discounts

Friends & family rates

20% food & beverage discount

Job summary

Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere in Knutsford is seeking an Assistant Sommelier to support our wine programme across the restaurant, delivering refined guidance, glassware service, and thoughtful pairings in line with Gordon Ramsay's standards of excellence.

You will work closely with the Head Sommelier, train team members on wine knowledge, maintain cellar organisation, and contribute to guest engagement in a fast-paced five‑star setting with exceptional dining experiences.

Qualifications

• WSET Level 2 or Court of Master Sommelier Certified or higher (or equivalent experience).
• Strong knowledge of global wine regions, producers, and vintages.
• Previous experience in a Michelin-starred or luxury dining environment preferred.
• Confident communication and guest-facing skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-expectation service environment.

Responsibilities

• Wine service includes delivering refined, confident guidance on selections, decanting, and thoughtful pairing recommendations, ensuring each guest experience reflects exceptional standards.
• Guest engagement focuses on building genuine rapport, understanding preferences, and offering personalised suggestions that elevate the dining journey.
• Training support involves assisting with team development by reinforcing wine knowledge, service techniques, and pairing principles.
• Operational excellence includes maintaining impeccable standards across wine service, cellar organisation, and glassware presentation.
• Menu collaboration supports the culinary team by aligning pairings with seasonal dishes.
• Cellar management includes stock rotation, accurate inventory, and maintaining a well-organised, temperature-controlled environment.

Skills

WSET Level 2 or CMS Cert

Wine knowledge

Guest-facing communication

High-pressure service

Team training support

Education

Court of Master Sommelier level or equivalent

Job description

Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere in Knutsford is seeking an Assistant Sommelier to support our wine programme across the restaurant, delivering refined guidance, glassware service, and thoughtful pairings in line with Gordon Ramsay's standards of excellence.

You will work closely with the Head Sommelier, train team members on wine knowledge, maintain cellar organisation, and contribute to guest engagement in a fast-paced five‑star setting with exceptional dining experiences.