Sommelier in Healdsburg, California at Appellation Healdsburg

The pay rate for this position is $20 - $25 an hour.

About Appellation

Born from the elegant merger of the culinary and hospitality worlds, Appellation is much more than a typical hotel company. Inspired by its name, this new hotel brand brings together the best of local elements in a new way: a hotel collection powered by people, connected by food, and defined by place—all designed to celebrate its destinations’ culture, community, and craftsmanship. Developed by visionary co-founders Charlie Palmer, one of America’s best-known, award-winning chefs and pioneer in the American hotel-restaurant model, and Christopher Hunsberger, a 30-year veteran of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and its former president of North Americas. Join Appellation as its first hotels and resorts take root in 2025.

Overview of Position:

The Hourly Sommelier at Appellation Healdsburg provides warm, professional wine service to guests across all F&B outlets, ensuring that each guest enjoys a memorable and informed wine experience. This role blends the art of tableside wine service with detailed inventory management and storage duties, making it an ideal fit for hospitality professionals passionate about wine and service.

This role is responsible for accurate inventory maintenance and upholding wine service standards in line with the Appellation brand.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Deliver gracious, knowledgeable wine service in the restaurant, bar, pool, and in-room dining areas, guiding guests to wine selections that complement their meal.
• Conduct tableside wine presentations, opening and decanting bottles as needed, ensuring proper etiquette and flair.
• Develop an in-depth understanding of the wine list and maintain updated knowledge of seasonal rotations and limited offerings.
• Respond to guest questions about wine with confidence, sharing insights on varietals, vintages, and pairings in an approachable manner.
• Maintain accurate inventory counts of all wine stock, ensuring proper rotation and storage standards (e.g., temperature control, labeling, and cleanliness).
• Conduct daily wine inventory checks and record discrepancies, communicating any issues or low stock to the Beverage Manager promptly.
• Assist in polishing and preparing glassware and wine service tools to maintain a polished guest presentation.
• Collaborate with the FOH team to ensure all servers are familiar with current offerings and have the tools they need to support wine service.
• Uphold health, safety, and sanitation standards for all beverage storage areas.
• Assist with setting up for special wine events or private dining functions, as directed.
• Perform other service or support tasks as assigned by the Beverage Manager or AGM.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Previous experience in wine service, beverage-focused roles, or fine dining environments preferred.
• Strong passion for wine and an eagerness to continue learning about wine regions, varietals, and styles.
• Excellent guest service and communication skills, with a friendly, approachable demeanor.
• Attention to detail and organizational skills, particularly regarding wine storage and inventory practices.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team in a dynamic environment.
• Physical stamina to lift wine cases and stand for extended periods.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Basic understanding of health and safety guidelines related to beverage service.
• CMS Level 1 or 2 (or equivalent) certification strongly recommended.