Sommelier - Cape Grace, Cape Town

About the role

Cape Grace, a Fairmont managed hotel in Cape Town, is looking for a Sommelier. You will give guests a full, personalised wine and beverage experience, from start to finish, and control the hotel's wine dispensary with tight stock control, maximising revenue and maintaining high guest service standards. The role works closely with the Food and Beverage leaders and the culinary team.

Key responsibilities

• Control the wine dispensary, keep tight stock control, oversee requisitions and ensure all checks are raised and processed correctly.
• Assist guests with wine and beverage pairing to complement the menu, and liaise with suppliers for wine updates, training and promotions.
• Work with the culinary team on food and wine pairings for menu updates, and develop and maintain wine-related staff training programmes.
• Maintain an up-to-date wine list, manage the wine preservation system and Coravin systems, and regularly check the quality of opened wine.
• Develop a budget plan, record, monitor and present a clear sales mix record, and promote sales within the department.
• Supervise mise-en-place, organise and assist with beverage service, issue receipts and ensure all polishing and breakdown duties are done.
• Follow cleaning schedules, fire, health, hygiene and training policies, and handle guest complaints positively.

Required profile

• Previous experience as a Sommelier, Wine Steward/Stewardess or similar role.
• Sound knowledge of local and international wines, including extensive knowledge of Southern African wines and vineyards.
• Ability to create well-complimented food and wine pairings.
• Strong leadership, interpersonal and training skills, and proven organisational skills with attention to detail.
• Full English reading, writing and oral proficiency, computer literacy, and a professional appearance in full uniform.
• South African citizenship, permanent residency or valid work authorisation; no visa sponsorship.

Required skills

• Certificate from the Cape Wine Academy or WSET Level 2, or certification in related studies (pre-requisite).
• Experience in all aspects of restaurant service and management.