Sommelier and Wine Ambassador

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 380,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Wine allowances

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a passionate Sommelier and Wine Ambassador for a premier winery and restaurant in Paarl, Western Cape. You will curate the wine list, manage the cellar, and provide expert wine recommendations to guests, with engaging tastings and tours.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years in wine-focused hospitality, excellent tasting and communication skills, and the ability to educate staff and guests about wine pairings. A strong passion for wine and hospitality is essential.

Qualifications

• Certified sommelier qualification highly desirable.
• Minimum 3 years as sommelier or in a senior wine-focused hospitality role.
• In-depth knowledge of international and South African wines, including varietals, regions, and vintages.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in public speaking and conducting educational sessions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the wine list for the estate's restaurant, ensuring a diverse and high-quality selection.
• Oversee cellar operations, including inventory management, ordering, and proper storage of wines.
• Provide exceptional wine service to restaurant guests, offering recommendations and pairings.
• Conduct engaging wine tastings, cellar tours, and educational sessions for visitors.
• Educate restaurant staff on wine knowledge, service standards, and upselling techniques.
• Represent the winery at industry events and promotions.
• Maintain relationships with wine suppliers and explore new sourcing opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with all licensing and service regulations.
• Contribute to the overall guest experience by sharing expertise and passion for wine.
• Assist in developing wine-related marketing initiatives and content.

Skills

Tasting skills

Communication

Public speaking

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Education

Certified Sommelier (Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET Level 3+)

Tools

Cellar management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an award-winning winery and restaurant located in the heart of the Paarl, Western Cape winelands, is seeking a passionate and knowledgeable Sommelier and Wine Ambassador. This unique role combines expert wine service with responsibilities for educating guests and promoting the winery's exceptional portfolio. You will be responsible for curating the wine list, managing the cellar, providing expert wine recommendations to restaurant patrons, and conducting wine tastings and vineyard tours. The ideal candidate will possess extensive wine knowledge, exceptional service skills, and the ability to convey a passion for wine in an engaging manner. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the renowned South African wine industry and represent a prestigious brand in Paarl .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the wine list for the estate's restaurant, ensuring a diverse and high-quality selection.
• Oversee cellar operations, including inventory management, ordering, and proper storage of wines.
• Provide exceptional wine service to restaurant guests, offering recommendations and pairings.
• Conduct engaging wine tastings, cellar tours, and educational sessions for visitors.
• Educate restaurant staff on wine knowledge, service standards, and upselling techniques.
• Represent the winery at industry events and promotions.
• Maintain relationships with wine suppliers and explore new sourcing opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with all licensing and service regulations.
• Contribute to the overall guest experience by sharing expertise and passion for wine.
• Assist in developing wine-related marketing initiatives and content.

Requirements

• Certified Sommelier qualification (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET Level 3+ in Wine) is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Sommelier or in a senior wine-focused hospitality role.
• In-depth knowledge of international and South African wines, including grape varietals, regions, and vintages.
• Exceptional tasting skills and understanding of food and wine pairing principles.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in public speaking and conducting educational sessions.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in cellar management software is a plus.
• Familiarity with the wine estates and culture of the Paarl, Western Cape region.
• A genuine passion for wine and hospitality.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, supplemented by performance-based incentives and generous wine allowances.
• Employees benefit from comprehensive training, opportunities to attend wine industry events, and a supportive work environment.

This is a unique chance to work amidst the stunning scenery of the Paarl winelands and build a career dedicated to wine excellence.