Sommelier

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 while managing the lodge’s wine program, cellar, pairings, and beverage service standards. The role combines fine-dining expertise with luxury safari hospitality and guest interaction.
Duties and Responsibilities
Wine Service and Guest Experience

• Recommend wines to guests based on preferences, cuisine, 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 pairing experiences for guests.
• Educate guests on wine regions, grape varieties, vintages, and South African wines.
• Ensure a memorable and personalised luxury dining experience.

• Curate and maintain the lodge wine list in line with the lodge’s culinary offering.
• Source premium local and international wines.
• Manage supplier relationships and wine procurement.
• Oversee cellar organisation, stock rotation, and storage conditions.
• Conduct regular wine stock takes and inventory control.
• Monitor beverage costs, breakages, and wastage.

• Train waitrons and F&B staff on:
• Wine knowledge
• Service etiquette
• Food and wine pairing
• Upselling techniques
• Assist in developing beverage menus and pairing experiences.
• Keep the team updated on wine trends and seasonal offerings.
• Promote wine sales and maximise beverage revenue.

• Ensure compliance with hygiene, safety, and liquor regulations.
• Maintain proper wine service equipment and glassware.
• Assist the Food & Beverage Manager during busy service periods.
• Coordinate with chefs to create pairing menus and special dining events.

POSITION INFO:
Qualifications and Requirements
Minimum Qualifications

• Grade 12 / Matric certificate.
• WSET Level 2 or 3, Cape Wine Academy, or recognised Sommelier certification preferred.
• South African Sommelier Association certification advantageous.

• 2–5 years’ experience as a Sommelier or Wine Steward in:
• Luxury lodges
• Fine-dining restaurants
• 4-star or 5-star hotels
• Previous luxury hospitality experience highly advantageous.
• Strong knowledge of South African and international wines.

• Advanced wine and food pairing knowledge.
• 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 beneficial.