Sommelier

We are looking for individuals to work in conjunction with our Wine Director and Head Sommelier to help select our wine offerings, to provide continued education for our team and to evolve the wine service. This is an ideal position for someone whose excitement for wine is matched by their deep commitment to guest service & hospitality in a fine dining setting. We are building a team of individuals focused on genuine hospitality and teamwork - ones who want to become valuable members of a successful service team. The wine list has a strong Italian focus while also featuring wines from the world's other classic, great regions.

The Sommelier is responsible for recommending wine varieties, supervising wine serving, collaborating with winemakers, taking stock while ensuring optimum service for our guests. The Sommelier also ensures that all policies & procedures and standard operating procedures are effectively maintained at an optimum level.

The position has an hourly rate of $17.00 per hour + tips.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• The most essential component to be a successful Sommelier will be the earnest desire to propel the wine program forward through clear communication and organization, a curiosity to learn more, and a willingness to share our expertise with guests and staff in a helpful, thoughtful way

• Create and update the wine list in coordination with chefs and the General Manager

• Collaborate with the Wine Director and Head Sommelier on the selections of the wines used in the restaurant for the uses of wine pairings, by the glass, and those represented as bottle selections

• Recommend food and wine pairings

• Be an authority on the wines used in the restaurant for the uses of wine pairings, by the glass, and those represented as bottle selections on the restaurant’s wine list

• Advise guests on wines based on their personal tastes and food choices

• Inform guests about different varieties of wines and prices

• Ensure wines are served at the right temperature and within the proper glassware

• Store open bottles properly to maintain strong taste

• Manage wine cellar and ensure it’s fully-stocked

• Train wait staff on available wines

• Assist the Wine Director in order to provide education for the dining room staff in the full range of beverages for the restaurant, including but not limited to wine, cocktails, beer, tea, and coffee

• Comply with all health and safety regulations constantly strive to improve operating procedures

• Maintain and monitor safe and sound procedures

• Attend meetings when designated to do so

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• As a Sommelier, specific certifications are not required, but a strong fundamental knowledge of the wine regions of the world – both Old and New World – along with producer familiarity and vintage knowledge is mandatory

• Experience as a Sommelier, Wine Steward/Stewardess or similar role

• Ability to create tasteful food and wine pairings

• Extensive knowledge of different wines and which regions produce each type

• Knowledge of local vineyards and wineries

• Understanding of the winemaking process

• Good communication skills

• Must have full schedule availability, including weekends and holidays

• Ability to be organized, manage time wisely, and work with little to no direct supervision

• Very high attention to detail

• Sensitive to cultural nuances

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal in English

• Able to handle a multitude of tasks in an intense, fast paced environment

• Excellent people skills and the ability to work under pressure and with various stakeholders

• Ability to maintain a clean and professional appearance as per company policies

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time

• Multi-lingual is a plus

• Must be able to lift & a carry at least 50 pounds

• Must be comfortable with repetitive motions (such as walking, bending & standing)

• Must be knowledgeable of industry critics & awards

• Must be able to take constructive criticism and work well in a team dynamic