Sommelier & Wine Experience Curator

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 400,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work environment

Wine discounts

Professional development

International study tours

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, a renowned vineyard and dining destination, seeks a Sommelier and Wine Experience Curator. You will curate the wine list, manage the cellar, and deliver exceptional wine service and education to guests.

The role blends strategic planning with on-site guest interactions in a flexible hybrid setup, requiring deep knowledge of global and South African wines, excellent palate, and passion for creating bespoke wine experiences.

Qualifications

• Formal certification as a Sommelier (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET) is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Sommelier or in a similar wine-focused role within fine dining.
• Extensive knowledge of international and South African wine regions, grape varietals, and winemaking techniques.
• Exceptional palate and tasting abilities.
• Strong understanding of cellar management and inventory control.

Responsibilities

• Develop, curate, and manage the wine list, ensuring a diverse and high-quality selection that complements the menu.
• Manage wine cellar inventory, including ordering, receiving, storing, and tracking stock.
• Provide expert wine recommendations and service to guests, including food and wine pairings.
• Conduct wine tastings and educational sessions for guests and staff.
• Maintain relationships with wine producers and distributors to source unique and high-quality wines.
• Ensure proper wine service techniques and standards are adhered to by service staff.
• Monitor wine trends and competitor offerings to maintain a competitive edge.
• Assist in the development of wine-focused events and promotions.
• Manage wine-related expenses and contribute to revenue generation goals.
• Stay updated on viticulture, oenology, and the global wine market.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Sommelier experience

Guest service

Inventory control

Education

Sommelier certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly acclaimed vineyard and fine-dining establishment in the heart of the Stellenbosch wine region, Western Cape, is seeking an exceptional Sommelier and Wine Experience Curator. This role operates on a hybrid model, allowing for strategic planning and remote research, combined with essential on-site guest interaction and wine program management. You will be responsible for curating the wine list, managing cellar inventory, and providing unparalleled wine service and education to guests. The ideal candidate possesses extensive knowledge of global and South African wines, a discerning palate, and a passion for creating bespoke wine experiences. Your expertise will significantly contribute to the establishment's reputation for excellence in gastronomy and viticulture. This position is ideal for a wine connoisseur looking to blend their passion with a dynamic role in one of South Africa's premier wine destinations, within a flexible hybrid work structure.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, curate, and manage the wine list, ensuring a diverse and high-quality selection that complements the menu.
• Manage wine cellar inventory, including ordering, receiving, storing, and tracking stock.
• Provide expert wine recommendations and service to guests, including food and wine pairings.
• Conduct wine tastings and educational sessions for guests and staff.
• Maintain relationships with wine producers and distributors to source unique and high-quality wines.
• Ensure proper wine service techniques and standards are adhered to by service staff.
• Monitor wine trends and competitor offerings to maintain a competitive edge.
• Assist in the development of wine-focused events and promotions.
• Manage wine-related expenses and contribute to revenue generation goals.
• Stay updated on viticulture, oenology, and the global wine market.

Requirements

• Formal certification as a Sommelier (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET) is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Sommelier or in a similar wine-focused role within fine dining.
• Extensive knowledge of international and South African wine regions, grape varietals, and winemaking techniques.
• Exceptional palate and tasting abilities.
• Strong understanding of cellar management and inventory control.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in the Stellenbosch or Western Cape wine region is a significant advantage.
• Ability to work a hybrid schedule, including some weekends and evenings on-site.
• Passion for wine and hospitality.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Employees benefit from a dynamic hybrid work environment, substantial discounts on wines and dining, and opportunities for professional development, including further wine education and international study tours. You will have the chance to work with exceptional wines and contribute to a world-class dining experience in the renowned Stellenbosch wine region. Opportunities for growth within the group are also available.