Responsibilities
job overview
a wine sommelier is a professional position in a wine bar or high-end dining venue. They are responsible for managing the wine inventory, recommending wines, and providing professional tasting advice to customers. A sommelier is both a wine expert and a facilitator of the customer experience, elevating the overall quality of the meal through wine pairings.
key responsibilities
wine recommendations and customer service
recommends appropriate wines and other beverages based on customer tastes, meal pairings, and budgets.
provides professional wine tasting services, including opening bottles, pouring wines, and explaining the characteristics of each wine.
answers customers' questions regarding origin, vintage, and winemaking techniques.
wine management and inventory
manages the wine inventory in the wine cellar and bar, ensuring that the wines are neatly organized and clearly labeled.
regularly checks wine quality, storage conditions, and expiration dates.
assists in sourcing high-quality wines, maintains communication with suppliers, and controls costs.
wine pairing and menu planning
works with the chef team to develop optimal wine and beverage pairings for each dish.
participate in the development of the wine menu, including new wines and seasonal recommendations.
training and team support
train servers and bartenders in wine knowledge and recommendation skills.
provide guidance to the team on wine tasting techniques and service standards.
quality and compliance
ensure that wine storage and service comply with health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
responsible for wine safety management in the bar and restaurant to prevent underage drinking.
requirements
beverage, hospitality, or related majors preferred.
certified sommelier (e.g., wset, court of master sommeliers) preferred.
experienced with a wide range of red, white, sparkling, and spirits wines.
excellent communication skills and service awareness, with the ability to connect with customers.
teamwork spirit and leadership potential, with the ability to mentor front-of-house staff.
career opportunities
senior sommelier / head sommelier
bar supervisor / wine bar supervisor
bar manager / f&b supervisor
wine bar manager or chain bar area manager