Sommelier - Award-Winning Restaurant

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff discounts on wine and dining

World-class hospitality environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a knowledgeable Sommelier for a premier fine dining restaurant in the Paarl region of the Western Cape. You will curate and manage an extensive wine cellar, craft pairing recommendations, and lead staff training to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

The role requires deep wine knowledge, strong communication skills, and the ability to balance quality with profitability. You will participate in wine selections, supplier negotiations, and organizing tastings in a

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of international and local wines, including grape varietals, regions, and winemaking techniques.
• Proven experience as a Sommelier in a high-end restaurant or luxury hotel.
• Formal wine certifications (e.g., WSET Level 3 or higher, Court of Master Sommeliers) are highly desirable.
• Exceptional customer service and communication skills, with the ability to articulate wine nuances effectively.
• Strong inventory management and cost control abilities.
• Ability to create and manage wine lists that complement the menu and appeal to clientele.
• Good understanding of beverage operations and profitability drivers.
• Experience in Paarl, Western Cape or the surrounding Winelands is a significant advantage.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• A refined palate and a passion for wine and hospitality.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the restaurant's wine list, focusing on quality, diversity, and profitability.
• Source, select, and procure wines and other beverages, negotiating with suppliers.
• Manage and maintain the wine cellar, ensuring proper storage and inventory control.
• 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 wine service, ensuring correct temperature, glassware, and decanting procedures.
• Monitor beverage costs and contribute to achieving profitability targets.
• Stay abreast of current wine trends, new vintages, and industry developments.
• Organize wine tastings and special events as required.
• Ensure compliance with all licensing and regulatory requirements related to alcohol service.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an acclaimed fine dining restaurant located in the heart of **Paarl, Western Cape**, is seeking a knowledgeable and passionate Sommelier to curate and manage its extensive wine cellar and beverage program. This is a unique opportunity for a wine expert to elevate the dining experience for patrons by offering exceptional wine recommendations and service. The Sommelier will be responsible for wine selection, cellar management, staff training on wine knowledge, and ensuring the perfect pairing for every dish. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of global wines, an impeccable palate, and outstanding communication skills to guide guests through the wine list. Join a prestigious team dedicated to culinary excellence in the scenic **Paarl** region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the restaurant's wine list, focusing on quality, diversity, and profitability.
• Source, select, and procure wines and other beverages, negotiating with suppliers.
• Manage and maintain the wine cellar, ensuring proper storage and inventory control.
• 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 wine service, ensuring correct temperature, glassware, and decanting procedures.
• Monitor beverage costs and contribute to achieving profitability targets.
• Stay abreast of current wine trends, new vintages, and industry developments.
• Organize wine tastings and special events as required.
• Ensure compliance with all licensing and regulatory requirements related to alcohol service.

Requirements

• Extensive knowledge of international and local wines, including grape varietals, regions, and winemaking techniques.
• Proven experience as a Sommelier in a high-end restaurant or luxury hotel.
• Formal wine certifications (e.g., WSET Level 3 or higher, Court of Master Sommeliers) are highly desirable.
• Exceptional customer service and communication skills, with the ability to articulate wine nuances effectively.
• Strong inventory management and cost control abilities.
• Ability to create and manage wine lists that complement the menu and appeal to clientele.
• Good understanding of beverage operations and profitability drivers.
• Experience in **Paarl, Western Cape** or the surrounding Winelands is a significant advantage.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• A refined palate and a passion for wine and hospitality.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance-based incentives, and opportunities for professional growth and development within the wine and hospitality industry.
• Benefits include staff discounts on wine and dining, and the chance to work in a world-class culinary environment.

This role is based in **Paarl, Western Cape, ZA**, offering a rewarding career for a dedicated wine professional.