Sommelier - Fine Dining

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Wine tastings

Employee discounts

Professional development

Prestigious culinary establishment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a sophisticated Sommelier for a premier Paarl-area restaurant. You will curate the wine program, guide guests through local and international selections, and ensure flawless pairings with our culinary creations.

As an on-site role, you will manage sourcing and cellar operations, train service staff, and collaborate with the kitchen to elevate the dining experience. A certified Sommelier with 3+ years in fine dining is preferred.

Qualifications

• Certified Sommelier qualification (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET Level 3 or higher) is highly desirable.
• Minimum 3 years of experience as a Sommelier or in a senior wine-focused role within fine dining establishments.
• Extensive knowledge of global wine regions, grape varietals, and wine pairing principles.
• Exceptional customer service skills and the ability to engage confidently with guests.
• Strong organizational skills for cellar management and inventory tracking.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the restaurant's wine list, ensuring a diverse and high-quality selection that complements the menu.
• Manage the wine cellar, including inventory control, purchasing, and proper storage conditions.
• Provide expert wine recommendations to guests, assisting them in selecting appropriate pairings for their meals.
• Conduct wine training sessions for service staff to enhance their knowledge and upselling capabilities.
• Oversee the correct serving temperature and presentation of all wines.
• Stay current with global wine trends, new vintages, and emerging producers.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Wine pairing

Customer service

Inventory management

Education

Certified Sommelier

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly acclaimed restaurant in the heart of Paarl , is seeking a sophisticated and knowledgeable Sommelier to curate their exceptional wine program. This role is integral to providing an unparalleled dining experience, guiding guests through an extensive list of local and international wines with expertise and passion. You will be responsible for wine procurement, cellar management, staff training, and ensuring perfect wine pairings to complement our culinary creations. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of viticulture, oenology, and exceptional service standards, contributing to the restaurant's reputation for excellence. This on-site role is for a wine connoisseur passionate about sharing their expertise with discerning clientele.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the restaurant's wine list , ensuring a diverse and high-quality selection that complements the menu.
• Manage the wine cellar, including inventory control, purchasing, and proper storage conditions.
• Provide expert wine recommendations to guests, assisting them in selecting appropriate pairings for their meals.
• Conduct wine training sessions for service staff to enhance their knowledge and upselling capabilities.
• Oversee the correct serving temperature and presentation of all wines.
• Stay current with global wine trends, new vintages, and emerging producers.

Requirements

• Certified Sommelier qualification (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET Level 3 or higher) is highly desirable.
• Minimum 3 years of experience as a Sommelier or in a senior wine-focused role within fine dining establishments.
• Extensive knowledge of global wine regions, grape varietals, and wine pairing principles.
• Exceptional customer service skills and the ability to engage confidently with guests.
• Strong organizational skills for cellar management and inventory tracking.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and gratuities based on experience and performance.
• Access to exclusive wine tastings and industry events.
• Employee discounts on food, beverages, and wine purchases.
• Opportunities for professional development and further wine certifications.
• A stimulating work environment within a prestigious culinary establishment.