Sommelier

Petersham Nurseries - Richmond; Richmond; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Petersham Nurseries Café in Richmond seeks an experienced Sommelier with a passion for wines. The role involves managing the wine cellar, providing exceptional service, and training staff. Ideal candidates will have at least 2 years of experience and a WSET Level 2 or equivalent.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years wine experience.
• Passion for learning about wine.
• Ability to recommend food and wine pairings.

Responsibilities

• Manage the wine cellar and serve wines at correct temperatures.
• Train wait staff about wines and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Participate in tastings and maintain effective inventory.

Skills

Customer Service

Knowledge of Italian Wines

Wine Pairing

Education

WSET Level 2 or equivalent

Job description

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The team at Petersham Nurseries Café is looking to recruit an experienced Sommelier, with a minimum of 2 years wine experience and studying at level 3 or 4, to work in our restaurant set within one of our charming greenhouses in Richmond. Petersham Nurseries outsources wines from leading wine suppliers in the country and imports wines directly from Italy.

As a Sommelier, you will work alongside our sister business, Petersham Cellar: an online wine merchant promoting an ever-evolving selection of hand-picked fine Italian wines to enthusiasts eager to discover and experience these wines and their culture.

Overview of the role:

• Maintain the highest levels of customer service, demonstrating exceptional knowledge of the menu and wine list, and ensuring your service increases sales and encourages repeat business.
• Handle daily opening and closing responsibilities.
• Collect and carry stock (a driving license is desirable).
• Serve wines at the correct temperature and in appropriate glassware.
• Recommend food and wine pairings.
• Properly store open bottles to maintain taste.
• Manage the wine cellar and ensure it is fully stocked.
• Train wait staff on available wines.
• Perform quality control on wines.

Person Specification:

• Passion and enthusiasm for learning.
• Good understanding of the winemaking process and knowledge of Italian wines and regions.
• Minimum WSET Level 2 or equivalent required.
• Ability to work alongside a passionate team.
• Able to troubleshoot and solve problems on the ground.
• Contribute to and champion sales and service strategies for all beverages and wine list items.
• Lead by example to instill a culture of exceptional customer service.
• Establish and maintain excellent customer relations at all times.
• Handle customer feedback promptly and appropriately to promote the business's reputation.
• Celebrate positive customer feedback and results.
• Possess thorough knowledge of the wine list and menus to advise customers expertly.
• Ensure effective management of events and functions.

Quality & Detail:

• Participate in regular tastings and pre-shift briefings to ensure service consistency and knowledge standards.
• Share wine and wine matching knowledge with front of house and kitchen staff.
• Advise service staff on wine recommendations for each dish.
• Adhere to operating standards to maximize service quality and profitability.
• Maintain personal and team grooming standards to reflect professionalism.
• Ensure the department is properly stocked with equipment, maintained, and compliant with safety regulations.

Operations:

• Stay updated on industry news, wine list changes, vintages, and wine of the month.
• Maintain and update the wine list, including pricing and vintages.
• Keep the wine cellar tidy and organized.
• Store new deliveries immediately and update inventory records.
• Understand and execute all systems, POS procedures, and departmental policies.
• Upsell wines to customers.

Budgeting, Planning & Sales:

• Carry out monthly stock control and inventory with support from bar staff.
• Record all wastage accurately, manage returns to suppliers, and process credits for corked or spoiled wines.
• Control and record new vintages.

Other:

• Flexible working hours, including weekends, bank holidays, and occasional evenings.
• Contribute to the ongoing growth and success of the business.