Sommelier and Wine Program Manager

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Exclusive tastings

Staff discounts

Industry events

Travel opportunities

Prestigious setting

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a sophisticated Sommelier and Wine Program Manager in Stellenbosch to curate and manage a premier wine collection and dining experience.

You will source exceptional wines, develop the wine list, train staff on wine knowledge, and drive a world-class program that complements the restaurant's cuisine with emphasis on local and international vintages.

Qualifications

• Certification from a recognized wine education body.
• Minimum of 5 years as a Sommelier in fine dining or luxury hospitality.
• Deep knowledge of global wine regions, varietals, vintages and winemaking.
• Excellent palate and ability to articulate wine complexities to guests and staff.
• Strong understanding of beverage cost control and inventory management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a diverse, profitable wine list with international and SA wines.
• Manage the wine cellar, including inventory control and cost management.
• Provide expert wine recommendations and pairing suggestions to guests.
• Train staff on wine knowledge, service standards and upselling.
• Organize tastings and events to drive engagement and sales.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Staff training

Customer service

Cost control

Education

WSET Level 3 or higher

Court of Master Sommeliers certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a sophisticated and knowledgeable Sommelier and Wine Program Manager to curate and manage the extensive wine collection and dining experience at their acclaimed restaurant in Stellenbosch . This role is critical in elevating the guest's culinary journey through expert wine pairing recommendations and dynamic cellar management. You will be responsible for sourcing exceptional wines, developing wine lists, training service staff on wine knowledge, and ensuring a world-class wine program that complements our client's exceptional cuisine, contributing to the reputation of one of the region's finest dining establishments, with a particular focus on local and international vintages.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain an exceptional, diverse, and profitable wine list, focusing on both international and South African wines.
• Manage the entire wine cellar, including inventory control, purchasing, storage, and cost management.
• Provide expert wine recommendations and pairing suggestions to guests, enhancing their dining experience.
• Train restaurant and bar staff on wine knowledge, service standards, and upselling techniques.
• Organize wine tastings, special events, and promotional activities to drive engagement and sales.

Requirements

• Certification from a recognized wine education body (e.g., WSET Level 3 or higher, Court of Master Sommeliers certification).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Sommelier in a fine dining or luxury hospitality environment.
• In-depth knowledge of global wine regions, grape varietals, vintages, and winemaking processes.
• Excellent palate, presentation skills, and ability to articulate wine complexities to guests and staff.
• Strong understanding of beverage cost control and inventory management principles.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and commission based on wine sales performance.
• Access to exclusive wine tastings and industry events.
• Generous staff discounts on food, beverages, and wine purchases.
• Opportunities to travel for wine sourcing and education.
• A refined and professional working environment within a prestigious culinary setting.