Sommelier

Purpose: The Sommelier is responsible for delivering an exceptional wine experience that complements Deliz’s food, hospitality, and service standards. This role leads the wine program on the floor, guides guests and the service team through thoughtful selections and pairings, and establishes a consistent wine-education program for the FOH team. The Sommelier works closely with the General Manager, Beverage Team, Chef, Events Coordinator, and service staff to support sales, inventory integrity, education, special events, and memorable guest experiences. All duties are performed in accordance with company policies, practices, and procedures.

• Provide knowledgeable, approachable, hospitality-driven wine service to every guest.
• Guide guests through the wine list, recommend selections based on preference and budget, and suggest appropriate food and wine pairings.
• Perform proper wine presentation, opening, decanting, pouring, storage, and preservation procedures.
• Maintain complete knowledge of the wine list, including producers, regions, varietals, vintages, pricing, and availability.
• Maintain working knowledge of the full food, cocktail, beer, and non-alcoholic beverage menus in order to make thoughtful recommendations.
• Establish and lead a structured wine-education program for FOH staff in accordance with the General Manager, including product knowledge, wine service standards, pairing principles, selling techniques, and wine-list updates.
• Create clear educational materials, conduct regular trainings and tastings, and help build measurable wine knowledge and confidence throughout the service team.
• Support the service team with wine sales, pairing guidance, tableside service, and guest recovery when needed.
• Collaborate with the General Manager, Events Coordinator, and Chef to develop and lead wine-focused event segments, including wine dinners, producer events, tasting experiences, pairings, and special menus.
• Assist in the planning and execution of private events and large parties by curating wine recommendations, pairings, service plans, and event-specific education for the team.
• Assist management with wine-list updates, new product rollouts, staff communications, and supplier or distributor coordination.
• Monitor wine inventory, storage conditions, pars, vintages, and out-of-stock items; communicate discrepancies or product concerns promptly to management.
• Assist with receiving, organizing, rotating, and properly storing wine inventory.
• Ensure all wine stations, cellars, storage areas, wine lists, glassware, and service tools are clean, organized, and guest-ready.
• Build relationships with regular guests and recognize preferences, celebrations, and reservation notes to create a personalized experience.
• Promote wine sales while protecting the integrity of the guest experience; make recommendations with confidence, never pressure.
• Follow all Illinois liquor laws, company policies, sanitation requirements, and responsible alcohol-service standards.
• Maintain a polished, professional appearance and demeanor consistent with the Deliz brand.
• Anticipate guest needs, address concerns immediately when first contact, and notify management of any guest complaint or recovery opportunity.
• Perform other job-related duties as requested by management.