Head Sommelier

Head Sommelier

Cantello Tayler Recruitment are currently recruiting for a Head Sommelier to join our client based in Ascot.

The successful Head Sommelier will be responsible for:

• Create a wine experience by advising guests in an articulate and friendly manner displaying professional salesmanship
• Help and advise guests with their wine and after dinner drinks choices while serving them with accuracy and flair
• Take orders for cocktails, aperitifs, spirits, wines, liquors and soft drinks, attending to guest needs
• Actively up sell beverages to guests by imparting your knowledge of wines and beverages in regards to matching with their dish choice
• To maintain, replenish and clean all wine service areas, cellar, wine racks wine tables and fridges, leading to efficient wine service whilst ensuring consistently outstanding service
• Responsible for assisting and ensuring that the beverage sales forecasted for the restaurant are met including ensuring all team members are aware of targets
• Make orders in a timely manner and monitor their correct storage, working closely with the Cellar Manager
• Search, select and buy wines from around the world, in conjunction with the Cellar Manager and Purchasing and compose all wine lists to achieve maximum guest satisfaction, profit, prestige and trade recognition
• Regularly review the wine list in line with the current trends and ensure that the wine list appeals to a diverse customer base
• Play a key role in any wine tasting with guests and banqueting clients
• Ensure that the beverage cost and contribution margins for wine meets the hotel targets
• Ensure that all the restaurant and lounge staff are aware of the wine and drinks on offer
• Support all managers in the sales of wines and to advise them on the best wines appropriate for the guest or event
• Take an active interest in the bar team and bar service, integrating with the restaurant to become a flexible workforce to support peak and troughs of business
• Liaise with suppliers to arrange frequent product knowledge training in both wine and spirits
• Share your wine knowledge and encourage your team to develop their wine knowledge further through regular training sessions such as workshops and upselling training
• Attend weekly banqueting meetings as required
• Be available during service times to support the team
• Take on management responsibilities and run a service in the absence of the Restaurant Director

The Head Sommelier will have:

• Master of Sommelier Diploma ideally
• Minimum qualified as a Sommelier
• Previous experience within a five star property or within a Michelin restaurant
• Vast knowledge of wines and spirits worldwide
• Business acumen
• Operations orientated
• Experienced in upselling techniques
• Management experience

If this Head Sommelier role is of interest to you, please click apply or contact Charlotte Harding in our Egham office.