Sommelier

The Bistro Group; Metro Manila; On-site; PHP 469,000 - 781,000; Full time

Job summary

The Bistro Group in Metro Manila is seeking a knowledgeable Sommelier to lead the wine program, provide expert wine service, and create memorable dining experiences for guests.

You will curate the wine list, train staff, pair wines with menus, manage inventory, and drive wine sales while upholding hospitality standards.

Ideal candidates have 2–3 years in fine dining, certification such as WSET or CMS, strong communication and teamwork, and a passion for wine and guest delight.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of Sommelier or wine-focused experience in fine dining.
• Experience developing wine lists and staff training.
• WSET, CMS, or equivalent certification is an advantage.
• Excellent communication and guest engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Curate and maintain wine list that complements the menu.
• Build relationships with wine suppliers and vendors.
• Assist with wine purchasing, pricing, and selection.
• Monitor wine inventory, storage, rotation, and handling.
• Stay updated on global wine trends and producers.
• Provide professional wine service and wine pairings for guests.
• Educate guests about wines in a friendly, approachable manner.
• Drive wine sales through recommendations and upselling.
• Train front-of-house staff on wine knowledge and service standards.
• Collaborate with culinary and service teams for a seamless dining experience.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Guest service

Communication

Upselling

Teamwork

Education

WSET or CMS certification

Job description

We are looking for a knowledgeable, passionate, and service-oriented Sommelier to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of wines, exceptional guest service skills, and the ability to create memorable dining experiences through expert wine recommendations and service.

The Sommelier will oversee key aspects of the restaurant’s wine program, including wine list development, inventory management, staff training, wine pairing, and guest engagement. This role will also help foster a strong culture of wine knowledge, hospitality, and service excellence within the team.

Key Responsibilities:

Wine Program Management

• Curate and maintain an exceptional wine list that complements the restaurant’s menu and overall dining concept.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with wine suppliers and vendors.
• Assist with wine purchasing, pricing, and selection.
• Monitor wine inventory, storage, rotation, and proper handling.
• Stay updated on global wine trends, regions, varietals, and emerging producers.
• Provide professional and personalized wine service to guests.
• Recommend wines based on guests’ preferences, budget, and food selections.
• Provide expert food and wine pairing recommendations.
• Educate guests about wines in a friendly, approachable, and engaging manner.
• Drive wine sales through effective recommendations, storytelling, and upselling.

Staff Training & Development

• Train and educate front-of-house employees on wine knowledge, service standards, and food pairing.
• Conduct wine tastings and training sessions to continuously develop the team’s wine expertise.
• Mentor team members and promote a strong culture of wine appreciation and service excellence.

Operational Excellence

• Collaborate closely with the culinary and service teams to deliver a seamless dining experience.
• Maintain accurate records of wine inventory, usage, and sales.
• Ensure proper wine storage and service standards are consistently followed.
• Comply with health, safety, and responsible alcohol service guidelines.
• Assist in planning and executing wine dinners, tastings, special events, and promotional activities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years of experience as a Sommelier or in a wine-focused role, preferably within a fine dining, luxury, or upscale hospitality environment.
• WSET, Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS), or equivalent certification is an advantage.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong sales and guest engagement abilities.
• Passionate about wine, hospitality, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with strong inventory management skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced restaurant environment.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.