Sommelier and Wine Bar Manager

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Gratuity share

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Discounts on food and beverages

Job summary

Placements24 client, a distinguished fine-dining establishment in Paarl, Western Cape, seeks an exceptional Sommelier and Wine Bar Manager to lead the beverage program, curate an extensive wine list, manage inventory and oversee the wine bar with elegant service. The ideal candidate has formal sommelier certification, 5+ years in fine dining, expertise in global vineyards, and a passion for hospitality.

You\'ll train staff, collaborate with culinary team, and drive profitability through

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of wine, viticulture, oenology, and major wine regions.
• Formal sommelier certification (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET Level 3 or higher) is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Sommelier or in a senior beverage management role within fine dining.
• Proven experience in wine list development, cellar management, and inventory control.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with guests, culinary teams, and management.
• Strong understanding of beverage cost control and profitability.
• A passion for wine and hospitality, with a commitment to exceptional service.
• Familiarity with South African wines and the Western Cape wine routes is a significant advantage.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain an award-winning wine list, reflecting global diversity and local terroir.
• Manage wine inventory, including purchasing, receiving, storage, and stock rotation.
• Provide expert wine recommendations and food pairings to guests, enhancing their dining experience.
• Oversee the operation of the wine bar, ensuring high standards of service and ambiance.
• Conduct wine tastings and educational sessions for guests and staff.
• Manage the wine cellar, ensuring optimal conditions for storage and preservation.
• Train and mentor restaurant staff on wine knowledge and service etiquette.
• Stay abreast of current wine trends, new releases, and emerging wine regions.
• Collaborate with the culinary team to ensure harmonious pairings between food and wine.
• Manage beverage costs and contribute to the profitability of the establishment in Paarl.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Cellar management

Inventory control

Wine list development

Food pairing

Team leadership

Customer service

Education

Sommelier certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished fine-dining establishment located in the heart of the renowned wine-producing region of Paarl, Western Cape , is seeking an exceptional Sommelier and Wine Bar Manager. This role requires a deep passion for wine, extensive knowledge of global vineyards, and a sophisticated understanding of wine service and cellar management. You will be responsible for curating the restaurant's extensive wine list, managing the wine inventory, and providing expert wine recommendations and pairings to guests. Additionally, you will oversee the operation of the hotel's wine bar, ensuring a premium guest experience. The ideal candidate will possess excellent interpersonal skills, a refined palate, and the ability to create an engaging atmosphere for wine enthusiasts in the beautiful Paarl Valley. This is a unique opportunity to lead the beverage program for a premier dining destination in the renowned Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain an award-winning wine list, reflecting global diversity and local terroir.
• Manage wine inventory, including purchasing, receiving, storage, and stock rotation.
• Provide expert wine recommendations and food pairings to guests, enhancing their dining experience.
• Oversee the operation of the wine bar, ensuring high standards of service and ambiance.
• Conduct wine tastings and educational sessions for guests and staff.
• Manage the wine cellar, ensuring optimal conditions for storage and preservation.
• Train and mentor restaurant staff on wine knowledge and service etiquette.
• Stay abreast of current wine trends, new releases, and emerging wine regions.
• Collaborate with the culinary team to ensure harmonious pairings between food and wine.
• Manage beverage costs and contribute to the profitability of the establishment in Paarl .

Requirements

• Extensive knowledge of wine, including viticulture, oenology, and major wine regions worldwide.
• Formal sommelier certification (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET Level 3 or higher) is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Sommelier or in a senior beverage management role within fine dining establishments.
• Proven experience in wine list development, cellar management, and inventory control.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with guests, culinary teams, and management.
• Strong understanding of beverage cost control and profitability.
• A passion for wine and hospitality, with a commitment to providing exceptional service.
• Familiarity with South African wines and the Western Cape wine routes is a significant advantage.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary, complemented by a gratuity share and potential for performance-based bonuses. Comprehensive medical aid and a retirement fund are provided. Employees enjoy generous discounts on food, beverages, and accommodation at the establishment and partner properties. Opportunities for continuous professional development, including specialized wine courses and international study tours, are available. Join a highly respected team in Paarl , contributing to the culinary excellence of the Western Cape .