Sommelier in Carmel Valley, California at Bernardus Lodge and Spa

SUMMARY:

The Sommelier is a knowledgeable and service-focused wine professional who enhances the guest experience through thoughtful wine recommendations, polished service, and strong support of the restaurant team. This role is primarily focused on floor service while also supporting the organization and accuracy of the wine cellar and wine list. By delivering warm, personalized service and sharing wine knowledge with confidence and approachability, the Sommelier will embody Bernardus Lodge & Spa’s Forbes service standards and the genuine hospitality of our Carmel Valley property.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITY:

· Provide knowledgeable, engaging wine service throughout all dinner seating areas while delivering the warm, personalized service expected at Bernardus Lodge & Spa.

· Recommend wines based on guest preferences, menu selections, occasion, and price point, creating thoughtful pairings that enhance the overall dining experience.

· Present, open, decant, and serve wine following proper fine-dining service standards.

· Support the service team with wine recommendations and wine service at their tables, ensuring timely and seamless execution throughout the dining experience.

· Build guest confidence through approachable wine knowledge, tailoring recommendations to both experienced wine enthusiasts and guests seeking guidance.

· Maintain awareness of the wine list, current vintages, varietals, regions, producers, pricing, and availability.

· Communicate wine knowledge and daily recommendations to servers and other members of the Food & Beverage team.

· Assist the service team as business levels require, including supporting table maintenance and overall flow of service.

· Maintain clean, organized, and fully stocked wine service stations, including appropriate glassware, decanters, wine tools, and service supplies.

· Handle wine carefully and responsibly to minimize breakage, waste, and product loss.

· Assist with resolving wine-related guest concerns and communicate service issues to Food & Beverage leadership when appropriate.

· Support special dinners, wine pairings, private events, and other wine-focused guest experiences as scheduled.

· May close the restaurant and serve as a key holder when needed, following established closing and security procedures.

· Receive wine deliveries and verify products for accuracy, quality, vintage, and condition before properly storing inventory.

· Organize and maintain the wine cellar to ensure bottles are stored appropriately and inventory is easily accessible for service.

· Maintain established par levels and communicate inventory needs, low-stock items, and discrepancies to the Director of Food & Beverage.

· Conduct routine inventory counts and assist with maintaining accurate wine inventory records.

· Keep the wine list current by updating vintages, availability, and other information as needed. Wine selection and pricing are determined by the Director of Food & Beverage.

· Ensure wines that are unavailable or sold out are promptly communicated to the service team.

· Prepare pre-shift wine notes, featured selections, pairing recommendations, and other information to support the service team’s wine knowledge.

· Assist with wine education and tastings for the Food & Beverage team as requested.

· Support wine dinners, tastings, special events, and other beverage programming as scheduled.

· Perform all other duties as assigned based on operational needs.

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

• Two years of wine-focused fine-dining service.
• Certified Sommelier or WSET Level 2 preferred.
• Responsible Beverage Service certification and food handler card upon hire.
• Able to stand for a full service shift and lift fifty pounds.
• Evening, weekend, and holiday availability required.

This role offers a dynamic work environment and growth opportunity where your contributions directly impact the guest experience and hotel revenues. If you are knowledgeable, service oriented, dedicated to the guest experience and enjoy working in a team-oriented atmosphere, we invite you to join our Food & Beverage team at Bernardus Lodge and Spa.