Head Sommelier - Wine Estate Restaurant

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Staff meals

Wine discounts

Job summary

Placements24 is hiring a Head Sommelier for a renowned wine estate with an award-winning restaurant in Paarl. You will curate and manage the wine cellar, and craft a wine list that harmonises with estate wines and the culinary offerings.

You will lead service standards, deliver expert pairings, train front-of-house staff, and oversee inventory and cost controls while staying abreast of global wine trends. Advanced certifications are highly preferred.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years as a sommelier, with 2+ in a senior role.
• Advanced wine certifications preferred (CMS, WSET).
• Extensive knowledge of domestic and international wines.
• Proven ability to develop wine lists and manage costs.
• Excellent presentation and guest service skills.
• Experience training and leading a team.
• Flexible availability, including evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Curate, manage, and maintain the wine cellar with optimal inventory control.
• Develop and update the wine list to complement the cuisine and vintages.
• Provide expert wine recommendations and pairings to guests.
• Educate and train front-of-house staff on wine knowledge and service.
• Oversee all aspects of wine service, ensuring consistency and excellence.
• Manage wine procurement, receiving, and cost control.
• Conduct tastings and staff education sessions.
• Stay abreast of global wine trends and producers.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef on harmonising food and wine.
• Negotiate with suppliers to secure favourable terms.

Skills

Palate

Wine knowledge

Leadership

Communication

Training staff

Education

Court of Master Sommeliers

WSET Level 3+

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine estate with an award-winning restaurant located in the picturesque surroundings of Paarl , is seeking an exceptional Head Sommelier. This prestigious role involves curating and managing the extensive wine cellar, developing an innovative wine list that complements the estate's wines and the culinary offerings, and providing expert wine service to discerning guests. The Head Sommelier will be responsible for maintaining the highest standards of wine knowledge, presentation, and service. We are looking for a passionate and knowledgeable individual with a refined palate and a proven ability to enhance the dining experience through exceptional wine pairings and recommendations. This is a unique opportunity to lead the wine program at a leading establishment in the heart of the Paarl winelands.

Key Responsibilities

• Curate, manage, and maintain the wine cellar, ensuring optimal storage and inventory control.


• Develop and update the wine list, featuring a diverse selection that complements the restaurant's cuisine and the estate's own vintages.


• Provide expert wine recommendations and pairings to guests, enhancing their dining experience.


• Educate and train front-of-house staff on wine knowledge, service standards, and pairings.


• Oversee all aspects of wine service, ensuring consistency and excellence.


• Manage wine inventory, including ordering, receiving, and cost control.


• Conduct wine tastings and educational sessions for guests and staff.


• Stay abreast of global wine trends, new vintages, and producers.


• Ensure compliance with all alcohol service regulations.


• Collaborate with the Executive Chef to create harmonious food and wine pairings.


• Manage relationships with wine suppliers and negotiate favorable terms.


• Maintain the highest standards of presentation and service for all wine-related activities.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Sommelier, with at least 2 years in a Head Sommelier or equivalent senior role.


• Advanced wine certifications (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET Level 3 or higher) are highly preferred.


• Extensive knowledge of international and local wines, including viticulture and winemaking.


• Proven ability to develop and manage wine lists and control beverage costs.


• Exceptional palate, sensory evaluation skills, and presentation abilities.


• Strong communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.


• Experience in training and leading a team.


• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.


• A passion for wine and the hospitality industry.


• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary package, including performance-based incentives and opportunities for wine-related professional development. Benefits include comprehensive medical aid and a retirement fund. The Head Sommelier will enjoy staff meals, discounts on wine purchases, and the opportunity to work within a prestigious wine estate in the beautiful Paarl region. Join a team dedicated to culinary and oenological excellence.