Sommelier Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of fine dining and wine, the significance of sommeliers has never been more pronounced.

As the palate of wine enthusiasts evolves, the demand for skilled individuals who can curate, present, and educate about our vino verities grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a sommelier?

Whether you are:

A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
A restaurant owner defining the ideal candidate,
Or simply fascinated by the art of wine selection and pairing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we unfold a customizable sommelier job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Contents show

Sommelier Duties and Responsibilities

Sommeliers are wine experts who specialize in all aspects of wine service, as well as wine and food pairing.

They have extensive knowledge about wines, spirits, and other beverages, and also keep up-to-date with the latest market trends.

The duties and responsibilities of a Sommelier are:

Develop and manage the wine list or beverage program of a restaurant
Work closely with the chef to pair and suggest wines that will best complement each particular food menu item
Meet with wine distributors and decide which wines to purchase and serve
Manage inventory and cellar of wines, ensuring proper storage conditions
Provide training and mentorship to other restaurant staff about wine
Serve wine in a professional manner and provide detailed explanation to customers about the wine’s characteristics and history
Conduct wine tastings and attend wine trade shows to stay updated with industry trends
Resolve customer complaints and ensure high level of customer satisfaction
Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and safety regulations related to alcohol service

Sommelier Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable and enthusiastic Sommelier to join our team.

The Sommelier will be responsible for assisting guests in selecting wine, maintaining an up-to-date understanding of the latest trends in wine, and managing our wine inventory.

The ideal candidate is passionate about wine and customer service, has a deep understanding of winemaking, wine pairing and wine serving protocols.

Ultimately, the role of the Sommelier is to enhance our guests’ dining experience by recommending wines that pair well with our menu, and promoting a better understanding and appreciation of wine among our patrons.

Responsibilities

Assist guests in selecting wines based on their personal taste and food choices
Update wine list to reflect changes in inventory
Conduct regular wine tastings and staff training sessions
Stay informed about the latest trends in the wine industry
Manage wine cellar and inventory
Work closely with chefs and kitchen staff to develop wine pairing menus
Ensure proper wine serving and handling procedures are followed
Maintain a clean and well-organized wine cellar
Resolve customer complaints and issues in a professional manner

Qualifications

Proven work experience as a Sommelier
Deep knowledge of wine production and different types of wine
Excellent communication skills and the ability to build relationships with customers
Strong organizational and management skills
Certification as a Sommelier or degree in Hospitality, Wine Technology, Viticulture, Oenology, or a related field
Ability to lift heavy items and work on feet for extended periods
Flexibility to work in shifts, during weekends and holidays

Benefits

401(k)
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Paid time off
Professional development opportunities
Staff discount

Additional Information

Job Title: Sommelier
Work Environment: Restaurant setting. The role may require working evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Restaurant Manager or Food and Beverage Manager.
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
Employment Type: Full-time
Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does a Sommelier Do?

A Sommelier, also known as a wine steward, is a trained and knowledgeable wine professional who specializes in all aspects of wine service, as well as wine and food pairing.

The role is much more specialized than that of a wine waiter, requiring a comprehensive understanding of wine regions, grape varieties, and vintages.

Sommeliers often work in fine dining establishments, wine bars, or luxury hotels, though they can also work as consultants or wine educators.

They advise customers on wine selection, based on factors like taste preference, budget, and the food being ordered.

They are also responsible for wine procurement, cellar management, and maintaining the restaurant’s wine list.

Sommeliers must know how to properly open, serve, and decant wine, and they often conduct wine tastings for customers or staff.

Their expertise extends beyond wine to other beverages like beer, spirits, cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks, coffee, and tea.

A sommelier’s role requires constant learning and staying updated on the latest wine trends, new releases, and recent vintages.

They are not only salespeople but also storytellers, sharing the history and nuances of the wines they serve, enhancing the dining experience for guests.

They need to have strong communication skills and exceptional customer service abilities.

Sommelier Qualifications and Skills

A competent sommelier should possess the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, including:

Vast knowledge about various types of wine, including their region of origin, grape variety, vineyard, and vintage.
Excellent palate and sensory skills to identify and distinguish between different tastes, aromas, and quality of wines.
Strong communication skills to describe the taste, aroma, and characteristics of different wines to customers and to assist them in making informed choices.
Good sales skills to effectively promote and sell wines to customers.
Customer service skills to build rapport with customers and ensure their wine experience is satisfactory.
Knowledge of food and wine pairing to recommend suitable wines that complement specific dishes.
Ability to manage the wine inventory, including purchasing, storage, and rotation of wine bottles.
Physical stamina to stand for long periods and lift heavy crates of wine.
Professional certification or sommelier courses would be a valuable addition.

Sommelier Experience Requirements

Sommeliers often start their careers in the hospitality industry, typically in restaurants or wineries, where they gain hands-on experience with various types of wines and service techniques.

Entry-level sommeliers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often obtained through internships or part-time roles in wine retail, winemaking, or as a restaurant wine steward.

In these roles, they develop their knowledge of wine, wine and food pairing, and customer service skills.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often further develop their skills in wine tasting, wine and food pairing, inventory management, and wine list development.

They may also have gained experience in purchasing wines and managing wine cellars.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience in their background, having led wine tastings or wine-related events, and managed junior sommeliers or other restaurant staff.

They may have also obtained higher levels of certification from sommelier certification bodies, which further attests to their advanced knowledge and skills.

Candidates for top sommelier positions may also have international experience, having worked in various wine regions around the world to broaden their understanding and knowledge of global wines.

Sommelier Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Sommelier generally requires a high school diploma or equivalent education, however, some positions may require a bachelor’s degree, preferably in hospitality or a related field.

On-the-job training is typically how many sommeliers start, gaining knowledge about wine and wine service directly in a restaurant or bar setting.

There are also several formal education programs and certifications for aspiring sommeliers, which are offered by institutions such as the Court of Master Sommeliers, the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, or the International Sommelier Guild.

These programs provide in-depth education on wine tasting, wine regions, and the pairing of wine with food.

Certifications range from introductory to advanced levels, with the highest certification being a Master Sommelier.

This title signifies exceptional knowledge and skills in the field and is a globally recognized qualification.

Apart from wine knowledge, sommeliers should also develop excellent communication skills, a high degree of professionalism, and an understanding of business operations in the hospitality industry.

It is common for sommeliers to continue their education throughout their career, to stay updated with the latest wine industry trends and discoveries.

Sommelier Salary Expectations

A Sommelier typically earns an average salary of $54,129 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income can fluctuate based on factors such as level of experience, certifications, the quality of the establishment, and geographical location.

Sommelier Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Sommelier need?

A Sommelier should have a comprehensive knowledge of wines, including their varieties, regions, and production methods.

They should also possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with customers and explain complex wine-related information in an accessible manner.

A keen sense of taste and smell is also crucial.

Lastly, a good Sommelier should have a good memory to remember the preferences and dislikes of frequent customers.

Do Sommeliers need a degree?

While a degree is not necessary, having a professional certification from a recognized institution like the Court of Master Sommeliers or the Wine & Spirit Education Trust can greatly enhance a Sommelier’s credibility and job prospects.

Some Sommeliers might also have degrees in Viticulture and Oenology.

What should you look for in a Sommelier resume?

A Sommelier’s resume should highlight their knowledge and experience in the wine industry.

This might include previous roles in wine serving, production, or sales.

Any relevant certifications or qualifications should also be clearly stated.

Additionally, any experience they have in customer service could be a bonus as Sommeliers frequently interact with customers.

What qualities make a good Sommelier?

A good Sommelier is passionate about wine and continually seeks to expand their knowledge of wines and wine-making processes.

They should have an excellent palate and a good memory to recall information about numerous wines.

They should also be personable, as they interact with customers frequently, and should be able to suggest wines that match their tastes and the dishes they have ordered.

Is it difficult to hire a Sommelier?

Hiring a skilled Sommelier can be challenging, considering the specific skill set required for the role.

The job requires both an extensive understanding of wines and the ability to engage well with customers, a combination that is not easily found.

To attract qualified candidates, you might need to offer competitive salaries and benefits.

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve uncorked the mystery of what it truly means to be a sommelier.

Guess what?

It’s not just about knowing your wines.

It’s about curating memorable dining experiences, one bottle at a time.

With our ready-to-use sommelier job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed to make your next move.

But why put a cork in it here?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously-crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every bottle selected is a part of a larger dining experience.

Let’s create these experiences. Together.

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