Head Sommelier

The Oyster Box; Durban; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury hotel in Durban is seeking a Wine Steward to enhance the dining experience through expert wine knowledge and service. Responsibilities include curating the wine list, managing inventory, and educating staff and guests about wine pairings. The ideal candidate will have formal wine training and experience in a fine-dining environment. Full-time position with a dynamic work schedule.

Qualifications

• Formal training in wine and proven experience in luxury dining.
• Knowledge in global wine regions, varietals, vintages, and food pairings.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift wine cases.

Responsibilities

• Recommend suitable wines to complement guests' meals.
• Ensure proper presentation and serving of wine.
• Monitor and manage the wine inventory.
• Curate and update the wine list.
• Educate serving staff about the wine list.
• Regularly taste wines for quality control.
• Provide guests with information about wine origins.
• Promote premium wines for upselling.
• Collaborate on wine-related events.
• Ensure compliance with licensing laws.

Skills

Expert wine knowledge

Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills

Ability to work well in a fast‑paced environment

Education

Sommelier certification or wine course

Job description

Job Summary

The Wine Steward is responsible for curating an exceptional wine experience for guests, enhancing dining service by providing expert wine knowledge and ensuring proper presentation and service. This role includes maintaining the wine inventory, recommending pairings, and delivering a sophisticated and personalised guest experience that reflects the standards of a 5‑star hotel.

Minimum Requirements

• Formal training in wine (such as a sommelier certification or wine course) and proven experience in a similar role within a luxury or fine‑dining environment.
• Knowledgeable in global wine regions, varietals, vintages and food pairings.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with a passion for creating outstanding guest experiences.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift wine cases as required.

Personal Attributes

• Enthusiastic, personable and genuinely passionate about wine and hospitality.
• Detail‑oriented with a commitment to service excellence and an eye for presentation.
• Self‑motivated, proactive and able to work well in a high‑pressure, fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends and holidays as per the hotel’s requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Wine Selection and Recommendation: Assess guests’ preferences and recommend suitable wines to complement their meals, involving a deep understanding of wine varieties, vintages and food pairing principles.
• Wine Service: Ensure proper presentation, opening and serving of wine according to industry standards, including correct glassware, temperature and pouring.
• Inventory Management: Monitor and manage the wine inventory, including ordering, stocking and rotating wines to maintain freshness and availability, collaborating with suppliers and tracking popular or seasonal selections.
• Wine List Curation: Work with management and chefs to curate and regularly update the wine list, ensuring it aligns with the restaurant’s cuisine theme and guest preferences.
• Staff Training: Educate serving staff about the wine list, including tasting notes and food pairings, so they can effectively assist guests with basic recommendations.
• Quality Control: Regularly taste wines and inspect storage areas to ensure optimal quality and freshness, checking for defects before serving.
• Guest Education: Provide guests with information about wine origins, production methods and tasting notes to enhance their experience and knowledge.
• Upselling: Promote premium wines and wine pairings to enhance revenue while elevating the dining experience.
• Event Planning: Collaborate with event organisers for wine‑related events such as tastings or wine‑pairing dinners, selecting special wines and leading tastings.
• Compliance: Ensure compliance with licensing laws and safety regulations around alcohol service and storage.

Employment Information

Employment Type: Full‑Time

Vacancy: 1

We are committed to an inclusive and diverse workforce reflected in South Africa's demographics. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups as defined by the South African Employment Equity Act.

If you wish to be considered for this position, please forward your CV together with an internal job application to the P&C Office or email: ____.