Discover Hospitality

What would I do?

Sommeliers duties primarily involve the purchase, correct storage and service of wine and include:

• The purchase, storage and cellar rotation of wine
• Development of wine lists
• Pairing wines to menus to complement food items
• Delivery of wine service in a restaurant, including 
  suggesting wines to guests or customers
• Training other restaurant staff about wine

A sommelier's role may be broader than working only with wines, expanding to include general bar duties but with a focus on wines, beers, spirits, cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages and coffees.

What training do I need?

Sommeliers are expected to have a considerable depth of knowledge of wines, Australian wines in particular, but French and other international wine products as well.  In addition, they should have knowledge of other beverages and food.  

Most sommelier positions require applicants to have a statement of attainment in the responsible service of alcohol (RSA).

What personal attributes do I need?

The personal attributes you need to be a sommelier focus on customer service skills.  These include:
• good interpersonal and communication skills
• good personal presentation
• a commitment to providing a high standard of customer 
  service
• the ability to work in a team
• a willingness to learn
• a responsible attitude to industry health and safety 
  regulations.

You need to be a minimum of 18 years of age to serve alcohol.

How many hours can I expect to work a week?

In general sommeliers are employed on a full-time basis and could expect to work 40 hours per week.  It is important to remember that much of their work involves evenings, weekends and shift work.

What are my employment prospects?

Employment prospects are very good as there is a constant demand for reliable, skilled sommeliers. Good growth is expected for these jobs over the next few years.

How do I find a job as a Sommelier?

If you have access to the internet go to www.discoverjobs.com.au, this a website dedicated to helping you find employment in the hospitality industry.  Or you could approach businesses in the areas you’d like to work in and ask to talk to them about employing you.  Leave your CV, which should include your workplace achievements and experience and contact details.  Make sure you follow up your initial approaches.