Wine Tourism Ambassador

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 201,000 - 290,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Wine training

Staff wine discounts

Career progression opportunities

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Wine Tourism Ambassador in Paarl to deliver exceptional wine tastings and guided tours, sharing the estate's history and winemaking philosophy. The role emphasizes top-notch guest experiences and sales support in a hybrid work setting.

The ideal candidate loves wine, communicates clearly, and can engage an international audience while representing the estate at events and tastings. English fluency and a presentable demeanor are essential.

Qualifications

• Experience in hospitality or tourism in a customer-facing role.
• Passion for wine and knowledge of viticulture and oenology.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to engage with an international clientele.
• Proficiency in English; additional languages are a plus.
• Willingness to work weekends/evenings as needed.
• Valid driver's license preferred.
• Wine education such as WSET is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct guided wine tastings and cellar tours for diverse groups of visitors.
• Share detailed information about the estate's history, vineyards, and winemaking processes.
• Educate guests on the characteristics of different wine varietals and pairings.
• Provide exceptional customer service, ensuring a welcoming and memorable experience for all guests.
• Manage tasting room operations, including stock control, order taking, and processing payments.
• Assist with the organization and execution of special events, such as harvest festivals and wine release parties.
• Represent the wine estate at local tourism fairs, markets, and promotional events.
• Develop and maintain a strong knowledge of the estate's wine portfolio and current offerings.
• Handle customer inquiries and feedback professionally and efficiently.
• Contribute to sales efforts by upselling wines and encouraging repeat visits.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Customer service

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Public speaking

English proficiency

Driver's license

Education

WSET certification (advantageous)

Formal wine education

Tools

Stock control

Point of Sale / payments

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine estate located in the picturesque landscape of Paarl, Western Cape , is seeking a charming and knowledgeable Wine Tourism Ambassador. This role is crucial in providing an exceptional tasting and touring experience for visitors, sharing the estate's rich history, winemaking philosophy, and the unique characteristics of their wines. While based at the estate, there will be opportunities for outreach and representation at local events, offering a hybrid work dynamic. The ideal candidate possesses a deep passion for wine, outstanding customer service skills, and the ability to articulate complex information in an engaging manner. You will be the face of the estate for many visitors, ensuring they leave with a lasting appreciation for its offerings. This role presents a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the world-class Cape Winelands and contribute to a prestigious brand. The position is primarily based in scenic Paarl, Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct guided wine tastings and cellar tours for diverse groups of visitors.
• Share detailed information about the estate's history, vineyards, and winemaking processes.
• Educate guests on the characteristics of different wine varietals and pairings.
• Provide exceptional customer service, ensuring a welcoming and memorable experience for all guests.
• Manage tasting room operations, including stock control, order taking, and processing payments.
• Assist with the organization and execution of special events, such as harvest festivals and wine release parties.
• Represent the wine estate at local tourism fairs, markets, and promotional events.
• Develop and maintain a strong knowledge of the estate's wine portfolio and current offerings.
• Handle customer inquiries and feedback professionally and efficiently.
• Contribute to sales efforts by upselling wines and encouraging repeat visits.

Requirements

• Previous experience in hospitality, tourism, or a related customer-facing role, preferably within the wine industry.
• A genuine passion for wine and a strong understanding of viticulture and oenology.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to engage with and cater to a diverse international clientele.
• Proficiency in English; additional languages are a significant asset.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and some evenings, as dictated by visitor flow and events.
• A professional and well-presented demeanor.
• A valid driver's license and reliable transportation are preferred for occasional off-site representation.
• Formal wine education (e.g., WSET certification) is a strong advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a performance-based commission structure on wine sales.
• Employees benefit from extensive wine training and the opportunity to taste and learn about a premium wine portfolio.
• You will work in a beautiful and stimulating environment within the heart of the Cape Winelands.
• Opportunities for career advancement within the wine tourism sector are available.
• Staff discounts on estate wines and products are provided.
• This role offers a chance to be part of a respected wine estate's legacy, based in the beautiful locale of Paarl, Western Cape , and to share its passion with visitors from around the globe.