Job Description

The Wine Sommelier is responsible for managing the restaurant’s wine program and delivering an exceptional wine experience to guests. The role involves curating the wine list, recommending wine pairings, maintaining inventory, and providing expert wine service that complements the restaurant’s fine dining Indian cuisine.

Key Responsibilities

Wine Program Management

• Wine Selection & Development: Curate, maintain, and update the wine list to complement the restaurant’s menu, guest preferences, and business objectives.
• Wine Pairing Expertise: Recommend and promote wine pairings that enhance the flavors of Indian cuisine and elevate the guest dining experience.
• Wine Service: Provide professional wine service, including presentation, decanting, serving at the correct temperature, and ensuring proper glassware usage.
• Inventory Management: Monitor wine inventory, conduct stock counts, place orders with suppliers, and ensure proper storage and cellar conditions.
• Supplier Relations: Maintain strong relationships with wine suppliers and stay informed about new products, vintages, and industry trends.
• Staff Training: Conduct wine knowledge and service training sessions for front-of-house staff to improve product awareness and upselling capabilities.

Guest Experience

• Engage with guests to understand their preferences and provide personalized wine recommendations.
• Educate guests on wine regions, varietals, vintages, and pairing options.
• Ensure a memorable and high-quality dining experience through attentive and professional wine service.
• Handle guest inquiries and special requests related to wine selections.

Sales & Revenue Growth

• Promote premium wines and specialty selections to maximize beverage revenue.
• Support wine-focused events, tastings, and promotional activities.
• Monitor wine sales performance and recommend strategies to improve profitability.

Job Requirements

• Formal sommelier certification (WSET, Court of Master Sommeliers, or equivalent) preferred.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in fine dining hospitality, with at least 2 years in a sommelier or wine-focused role.
• Strong knowledge of wine regions, grape varietals, vintages, wine service standards, and food pairing principles.
• Understanding of wine pairings with Indian cuisine is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and guest engagement skills.
• Strong organizational and inventory management abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced fine dining environment.
• Passion for wine, hospitality, and continuous learning.

Skills