Sommelier

Sommelier

Job Summary

A Sommelier at a 5-star game lodge in the Kruger National Park is responsible for delivering an exceptional luxury wine and beverage experience to guests.

The role includes managing the lodge’s wine programme, cellar, wine pairings, beverage service standards, and guest wine experiences. This position combines fine-dining expertise with luxury safari hospitality and professional guest interaction.

Key Responsibilities

Wine Service and Guest Experience

• Recommend wines to guests based on their preferences, meals, and occasion.

• Provide expert food and wine pairings during meals and special dining experiences.

• Present, open, decant, and serve wines according to fine-dining standards.

• Conduct private wine tastings and wine-pairing experiences for guests.

• Educate guests on wine regions, grape varieties, vintages, and South African wines.

• Create a personalised, memorable, and luxury dining experience for guests.

• Maintain professional and engaging guest interaction at all times.

Wine List and Cellar Management

• Curate, update, and maintain the lodge wine list in line with the culinary offering.

• Source premium local and international wines.

• Manage supplier relationships and wine procurement.

• Oversee cellar organisation, stock rotation, and correct storage conditions.

• Conduct regular wine stocktakes and inventory checks.

• Monitor beverage costs, breakages, wastage, and stock movement.

• Ensure the wine cellar is well maintained, organised, and properly controlled.

Staff Training and Beverage Development

• Train waitrons and Food and Beverage staff on:

  • Wine knowledge

  • Wine service etiquette

  • Food and wine pairing

  • Upselling techniques

• Assist in developing beverage menus and wine-pairing experiences.

• Keep the team updated on wine trends, seasonal offerings, and new stock.

• Promote wine sales and maximise beverage revenue.

• Support service teams in delivering consistent luxury beverage standards.

Operational Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with hygiene, safety, and liquor regulations.

• Maintain proper wine service equipment, glassware, and cellar tools.

• Assist the Food and Beverage Manager during busy service periods.

• Coordinate with chefs to create pairing menus and special dining events.

• Assist with guest hosting and luxury hospitality service when required.

• Support overall Food and Beverage operations where needed.

Qualifications and Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Grade 12 / Matric certificate.

• WSET Level 2 or Level 3, Cape Wine Academy, or recognised Sommelier certification preferred.

• South African Sommelier Association certification will be advantageous.

Experience

• Minimum 2–5 years’ experience as a Sommelier or Wine Steward in one or more of the following environments:

  • Luxury lodges

  • Fine-dining restaurants

  • 4-star or 5-star hotels

• Previous luxury hospitality experience will be highly advantageous.

• Strong knowledge of South African and international wines.

Technical Skills

• Advanced wine and food pairing knowledge.

• Strong knowledge of wine storage and cellar management.

• Inventory and beverage cost control experience.

• Understanding of fine-dining service standards.

• Familiarity with POS and inventory systems will be beneficial.

• Strong communication and guest interaction skills.

• Ability to train and guide service teams professionally.