Introduction to the Career

Sommelier is a professional beverage expert who specializes in the serving, selection and pairing of wines with various types of food. Their primary role is to help restaurant guests to select the perfect wine that complements their meal. Sommeliers have a great understanding of various grape varieties, flavors, and regions where the wine originates. They hold extensive knowledge on how to serve and store wine.

Career Values, Traits, and Skills

To succeed as a sommelier, you should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, attentiveness to detail, a passion for wine, and an ability to work effectively in a team. You should have a deep understanding of different wines and how they can be paired with different types of food. You should also be able to keep up to date with industry trends and attend various training and wine-tasting events.

Career Path

Individuals that are interested in pursuing a career as a sommelier can receive training through various educational programs, including a Diploma in Wine and Spirits offered by the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) or a Certified Sommelier program by the Court of Master Sommeliers. After obtaining the required qualifications, you can secure an apprenticeship or internship in a reputable restaurant or hotel to gain practical experience. The opening may also arise in wine sales, distribution, journalism and writing, teaching and consulting.

Salary Range

The salaries for sommeliers vary depending on their experience, location, and type of establishment they work in. Sommeliers earn an average salary of $65,000 to $115,000 per annum with the potential to earn up to $150,000 for working as a head sommelier or in a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Tips for Success

To succeed as a sommelier, it is essential to stay educated and informed of global wine industry trends, up and coming vineyards, wine regions and different grape varieties. Networking with other professionals and staying up to date in world events and trends can help you to foster a clientele that trusts you as a true expert in the field. It is vital to also possess excellent customer service skills that will help you navigate the understanding of your client’s budget, wine knowledge and interests to create a personalized experience.

References

• GuildSomm website (https://www.guildsomm.com/)
• Wine and Spirit Education Trust (https://www.wsetglobal.com/)
• Court of Master Sommeliers (https://www.mastersommeliers.org/)