Sommelier - Luxury wine estate, Stellenbosch

SUMMARY:
Sommelier

POSITION INFO:

Job Title: Sommelier

Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape (Relais & Châteaux Property)

About Us: Situated in the heart of Stellenbosch, our luxury wine estate is renowned for its commitment to exceptional service, world-class cuisine, and an outstanding wine selection. As a prestigious Relais & Châteaux property, we strive to create unforgettable experiences for our guests, celebrating the art of fine wine and hospitality.

Position: Sommelier

Key Responsibilities:

• Curate and manage the restaurant’s wine selection, highlighting exceptional local and international wines.
• Provide expert wine recommendations, pairing wines to complement the menu offerings.
• Deliver engaging and educational wine presentations to elevate the dining experience.
• Collaborate with the kitchen team to design seamless wine pairings for seasonal menus.
• Oversee wine inventory, procurement, and proper storage practices.
• Train and mentor staff on wine knowledge, service etiquette, and presentation techniques.
• Monitor wine sales and develop strategies to drive revenue through optimized wine lists.
• Stay informed on wine industry trends, including vintages, regions, and sustainable practices.
• Address guest inquiries, feedback, and special requests with professionalism.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and licensing regulations.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

1. Guest Satisfaction: Deliver a world-class wine experience tailored to guest preferences.
2. Wine Sales: Meet and exceed revenue targets through strategic wine recommendations.
3. Pairing Excellence: Provide exceptional pairings that enhance the dining experience.
4. Inventory Management: Maintain optimal stock levels and reduce waste.
5. Team Training: Cultivate staff expertise in wine knowledge and service.
6. Brand Reputation: Uphold the estate’s legacy of excellence in wine offerings.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a Sommelier or similar role in luxury hospitality.
• Extensive knowledge of wines, regions, vintages, and food pairings.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to engage and educate guests.
• A WSET Level 3 or equivalent certification (or higher) is highly advantageous.
• Strong organizational skills for managing inventory and operations.
• Passion for creating meaningful guest experiences through wine education.

Salary: Negotiable, depending on experience.

How to Apply: If you are an experienced wine professional with a passion for excellence, we invite you to apply. Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your experience and passion for wine to