Sommelier - Fine Wine Estate

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 320,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Wine allocations

Performance bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a skilled Sommelier for a prestigious Stellenbosch wine estate, responsible for cellar management, wine list curation and pairing guidance in the restaurant and tasting room. The ideal candidate has 3+ years in a senior wine role, holds CMS or WSET Level 3+ and demonstrates exceptional guest service and communication skills.

You will collaborate with the Head Chef, manage stock, train staff, and ensure compliance with liquor regulations while delivering memorable wine

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience as a Sommelier or senior wine-focused role in a high-end setting.
• Recognized sommelier certification (CMS or WSET Level 3+).
• Extensive knowledge of international and South African wines, viticulture and regions.

Responsibilities

• Develop, curate, and manage the estate's wine list and ensure high-quality selections.
• Provide expert wine recommendations and pairings to guests in restaurant and tasting room.
• Manage wine cellar including inventory, rotation, orders and storage conditions.
• Conduct wine tastings and educational sessions for guests, staff, and visitors.
• Ensure impeccable wine service standards, decanting, glassware selection, and temperature control.
• Train restaurant and tasting room staff on wine knowledge, service standards and upselling.
• Stay abreast of global wine trends, producers and varietals.
• Collaborate with Head Chef on wine pairings.
• Maintain relationships with wine suppliers and distributors.
• Ensure compliance with liquor licensing laws in Stellenbosch.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Tasting skills

Customer service

Inventory management

Staff training

Education

Court of Master Sommeliers

WSET Level 3+

Job description

About the Role Our client, an esteemed wine estate renowned for its award-winning wines and exceptional hospitality, situated in the picturesque **Stellenbosch** region, is seeking a highly knowledgeable and passionate Sommelier. This role is integral to providing guests with an unparalleled wine and dining experience. The Sommelier will be responsible for managing the wine cellar, curating the wine list, providing expert wine recommendations to guests, and overseeing wine service in the estate's restaurant and tasting room. The ideal candidate will have an in-depth understanding of wine, excellent communication skills, and a dedication to service excellence. This position offers a unique opportunity to work within a world-class wine destination in **Stellenbosch**.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, curate, and manage the estate’s wine list, ensuring a diverse and high-quality selection that complements the culinary offerings.
• Provide expert wine recommendations and pairing suggestions to guests in the restaurant and at the wine tasting room.
• Manage the wine cellar, including inventory control, stock rotation, ordering, and maintaining optimal storage conditions.
• Conduct wine tastings and educational sessions for guests, staff, and visitors.
• Ensure impeccable wine service standards, including proper decanting, glassware selection, and temperature control.
• Train restaurant and tasting room staff on wine knowledge, service standards, and upselling techniques.
• Stay abreast of global wine trends, new producers, and emerging varietals.
• Collaborate with the Head Chef to create harmonious food and wine pairings.
• Maintain relationships with wine suppliers and distributors.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant liquor licensing laws and regulations in **Stellenbosch**.

Requirements

• A minimum of 3 years of experience as a Sommelier or in a senior wine-focused role within a high-end restaurant or wine estate.
• Recognized Sommelier certification (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET Level 3 or higher in Wine).
• Extensive knowledge of international and South African wines, including viticulture, vinification, and regions.
• Excellent palate, tasting skills, and ability to articulate wine characteristics clearly.
• Exceptional customer service and communication skills, with the ability to engage and educate guests.
• Strong organizational and inventory management skills.
• Experience in cellar management and wine list development.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, especially during peak seasons in **Stellenbosch**.
• A passion for wine and delivering outstanding guest experiences.
• Fluent in English; knowledge of other languages is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, complemented by attractive incentives such as wine allocations and performance bonuses. You will have the opportunity to work with an exceptional collection of wines and contribute to the reputation of a leading **Stellenbosch** wine estate. Professional development opportunities, including further wine education, will be provided. This is a dream role for a dedicated wine professional seeking to immerse themselves in the heart of the South African wine industry.