Sommelier

FAIRMONT; New Orleans (LA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Fairmont Delmonico Steakhouse in New Orleans seeks an experienced sommelier to lead a premier wine program in a fine-dining setting known for steak and Creole cuisine.

You will curate the wine list, manage the cellar, train staff, and partner with the kitchen to create memorable guest experiences, including wine dinners and events, while maintaining compliance with safety and liquor regulations.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of wine regions and varietals.
• Formal wine education or sommelier certification preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and professional demeanor.
• Strong verbal communication for guest education.
• Ability to manage inventory and cellar operations.
• Willingness to work varied shifts, including nights and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Wine program management: develop, curate, and maintain the winery program.
• Inventory control: manage wine purchasing, receiving, and cellar organization.
• Guest service: advise on wine selections and offer tableside service.
• Staff training: educate FOH staff on wine program and service standards.
• Collaboration: coordinate with kitchen for food and wine pairings.
• Guest relations: build rapport with regular clientele and preferences.
• Cost and sales: monitor wine costs and drive profitability.
• Event hosting: organize wine dinners and tastings.
• Compliance: adhere to health, safety, and liquor regulations.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Certification

Hospitality skills

Communication

Organization

Availability

Education

Sommelier certification (Court of Master Sommeliers or WSET)

Job description

Job Description

Delmonico Steakhouse, an Emeril Lagasse establishment, requires a sommelier who can manage a high-end wine program for a fine-dining restaurant known for its steak and Creole cuisine. The sommelier's responsibilities include curating the wine list, managing the cellar, educating staff, and providing a sophisticated dining experience for guests.

Responsibilities

• Wine program management: Develop, curate, and maintain the restaurant's extensive, award-winning wine program, including both bottle and by-the-glass selections. The program should complement the steakhouse's classic menu
• Inventory control: Manage all aspects of the wine inventory, from purchasing and receiving orders to organizing and maintaining the wine cellar
• Guest service: Advise diners on wine selections, making recommendations based on their menu choices, personal tastes, and budget. Engage in tableside wine service, including presentation and pouring
• Staff training: Educate the front-of-house staff on the wine program and service standards, enabling them to make informed recommendations and serve wine with confidence
• Collaboration: Work closely with the kitchen team to ensure seamless food and wine pairings.
• Guest relations: Maintain a rapport with regular clientele, remember their preferences, and build a positive relationship
• Cost and sales: Negotiate with vendors, monitor wine sales, and manage costs to ensure profitability
• Event hosting: Organize and host wine-related events, such as wine dinners and tastings, for both guests and staff
• Compliance: Adhere to all health, safety, and liquor-serving regulations

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Wine knowledge: An extensive and in-depth knowledge of wine regions, varietals, and the winemaking process is essential. Experience in a similar, high-volume fine-dining setting is typically preferred.
• Certification: Formal wine education or sommelier certification, such as from the Court of Master Sommeliers or WSET, is generally required or preferred.
• Hospitality skills: Exceptional interpersonal skills and a friendly, professional demeanor are crucial for interacting with guests and staff.
• Communication: Strong verbal communication skills are necessary for explaining wine concepts to guests with varying levels of knowledge.
• Organization: The ability to effectively manage inventory, track sales, and oversee cellar maintenance is required.
• Availability: A willingness to work varied shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, is standard for this role

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.