Senior Sommelier - Wine Estate Restaurant

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Wine & dining allowances

Accommodation available

Staff discounts

Pension & medical aid

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Sommelier for a premier wine estate in Stellenbosch. Lead the beverage program, curate a diverse wine list, and elevate guest experiences through expert service and pairing.

You will manage the cellar, train staff on wine service, and collaborate with the chef to create harmonious pairings while staying ahead of global wine trends. Accommodation and benefits provided.

Qualifications

• Advanced Sommelier certification or equivalent is highly preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years as a sommelier in fine dining.
• Extensive knowledge of global wine regions, vintages, and winemaking techniques.
• Proven experience in wine cellar management and inventory control.
• Exceptional guest service skills and a refined palate.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to train and mentor staff effectively.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of South African wines, especially Stellenbosch region.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and public holidays.

Responsibilities

• Develop, curate, and manage the restaurant's extensive wine list, with local and international vintages, including estate wines.
• Provide expert wine recommendations and personalized service to guests.
• Manage wine cellar inventory, storage, rotation, and ordering.
• Conduct wine training sessions for front-of-house staff.
• Maintain impeccable wine presentation and service standards.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef on wine and food pairings.
• Stay abreast of global wine trends and new producers.
• Organize and host wine tastings and pairing dinners.
• Ensure accurate billing and inventory related to wine sales.
• Uphold the estate and restaurant's premier culinary and oenological reputation.

Skills

Advanced Sommelier certification

Sommelier experience

Global wine knowledge

Wine cellar management

Guest service excellence

Communication & presentation

Staff training & mentoring

Organizational skills

Knowledge of Stellenbosch wines

Flexible schedule (evenings/weekends)

Education

Advanced Sommelier certification (Court of Master Sommeliers Advanced or equivalent)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an internationally acclaimed wine estate nestled in the picturesque vineyards of Stellenbosch, Western Cape, is seeking an exceptional Senior Sommelier to lead their renowned fine-dining restaurant's beverage program. This prestigious position offers the opportunity to curate and manage an extensive wine list, provide expert wine service to discerning guests, and contribute to the overall culinary excellence of the estate. The ideal candidate will possess an encyclopedic knowledge of global wines, a refined palate, and a passion for pairing wines with exquisite cuisine. You will be responsible for managing the cellar, training restaurant staff on wine service, and ensuring an unparalleled guest experience. This is a coveted role for a dedicated wine professional looking to immerse themselves in the heart of South Africa's premier wine-producing region, Stellenbosch. You will play a crucial role in elevating the dining experience by showcasing the estate's own exceptional wines alongside a thoughtfully selected international collection. The ability to communicate complex wine information in an approachable and engaging manner is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, curate, and manage the restaurant's extensive wine list, with a focus on local and international vintages, including the estate's own wines.


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


• Manage all aspects of the wine cellar, including inventory control, storage, stock rotation, and ordering.


• Conduct regular wine training sessions for front-of-house staff, ensuring they possess a strong understanding of the wine list and service standards.


• Maintain impeccable presentation and service standards for all wine offerings.


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


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


• Organize and host wine tastings, wine pairing dinners, and other beverage-focused events.


• Ensure accurate billing and inventory management related to wine sales.


• Uphold the reputation of the wine estate and its restaurant as a premier culinary and oenological destination.

Requirements

• Advanced Sommelier certification (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers Advanced or equivalent) is highly preferred.


• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Sommelier in a high-caliber restaurant or fine-dining establishment.


• Extensive knowledge of global wine regions, grape varietals, vintages, and winemaking techniques.


• Proven experience in wine cellar management and inventory control.


• Exceptional guest service skills and a refined palate.


• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.


• Ability to train and mentor staff effectively.


• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.


• Knowledge of South African wines, particularly those from the Stellenbosch region, is essential.


• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.


• Generous wine and dining allowances.


• Opportunities to attend exclusive wine events and further education.


• Accommodation options available on or near the wine estate.


• Staff discounts on wine purchases and estate products.


• A chance to work in a world-renowned wine and culinary setting in Stellenbosch.


• Pension fund and medical aid contributions.