Sommelier - Luxury Wine Estate, Stellenbosch

Job Title : Sommelier

Location : Stellenbosch, Western Cape (Relais & Châteaux Property)

About Us : Situated in the heart of Stellenbosch, our luxury wine estate is renowned for its commitment to exceptional service, world-class cuisine, and an outstanding wine selection.

As a prestigious Relais & Châteaux property, we strive to create unforgettable experiences for our guests, celebrating the art of fine wine and hospitality.

Position : Sommelier

Key Responsibilities

1. Curate and manage the restaurant's wine selection, highlighting exceptional local and international wines.
2. Provide expert wine recommendations, pairing wines to complement the menu offerings.
3. Deliver engaging and educational wine presentations to elevate the dining experience.
4. Collaborate with the kitchen team to design seamless wine pairings for seasonal menus.
5. Oversee wine inventory, procurement, and proper storage practices.
6. Train and mentor staff on wine knowledge, service etiquette, and presentation techniques.
7. Monitor wine sales and develop strategies to drive revenue through optimized wine lists.
8. Stay informed on wine industry trends, including vintages, regions, and sustainable practices.
9. Address guest inquiries, feedback, and special requests with professionalism.
10. Ensure compliance with health, safety, and licensing regulations.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

1. Guest Satisfaction : Deliver a world-class wine experience tailored to guest preferences.
2. Wine Sales : Meet and exceed revenue targets through strategic wine recommendations.
3. Pairing Excellence : Provide exceptional pairings that enhance the dining experience.
4. Inventory Management : Maintain optimal stock levels and reduce waste.
5. Team Training : Cultivate staff expertise in wine knowledge and service.
6. Brand Reputation : Uphold the estate's legacy of excellence in wine offerings.

Qualifications

1. Proven experience as a Sommelier or similar role in luxury hospitality.
2. Extensive knowledge of wines, regions, vintages, and food pairings.
3. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to engage and educate guests.
4. A WSET Level 3 or equivalent certification (or higher) is highly advantageous.
5. Strong organizational skills for managing inventory and operations.
6. Passion for creating meaningful guest experiences through wine education.

Salary : Negotiable, depending on experience.

How to Apply : If you are an experienced wine professional with a passion for excellence, we invite you to apply. Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your experience and passion for wine.