Junior Sommelier - Fine Dining Restaurant

JUNIOR SOMMELIER

Location:

Makati City

Salary:

Php25,000 - Php30,000 + Service Charge

Reports To:

Head Sommelier / Head Chef / Restaurant Manager

Position Summary

The Junior Sommelier supports the restaurant's wine program and service team in delivering an exceptional wine experience to guests.

The role is ideal for an aspiring sommelier who wants to develop hands-on experience in fine-dining wine service, food and wine pairing, cellar management, wine education, and guest engagement.

The successful candidate will work closely with the Head Sommelier and service team while progressively developing the knowledge, confidence, and technical skills required to advance in the wine profession.

Primary Responsibilities

A. Wine Service & Guest Experience

• Assist the Sommelier in providing professional wine service to guests.
• Assist with wine recommendations based on guest preferences and menu selections.
• Support tableside wine presentations, opening, pouring, and decanting.
• Ensure proper wine service throughout the guest's dining experience.
• Assist in preparing and maintaining wine service stations.
• Communicate wine information to guests in a friendly and approachable manner.
• Handle premium and fine wines with proper care.
• Observe guest preferences and provide feedback to the Head Sommelier/Chef.
• Support the team in delivering consistent fine-dining service standards.

B. Food & Wine Pairing

• Develop knowledge of the restaurant's menu and ingredients.
• Learn and apply basic food and wine pairing principles.
• Assist the Sommelier in recommending wines for tasting menus and à la carte dishes.
• Participate in wine tastings and pairing sessions.
• Continuously improve knowledge of wine regions, grape varieties, producers, and styles.

C. Wine Program Support

• Assist the Head Sommelier in maintaining the wine list.
• Check wine availability and communicate stock issues.
• Assist with wine tastings and product evaluations.
• Help prepare wine flights and pairing selections.
• Assist with wine dinners, tastings, and special events.
• Stay updated on wines available in the restaurant.

D. Cellar & Inventory Management

• Conduct daily wine inventory checks and maintain accurate inventory records.
• Ensure all wines are properly stored, organized, and labeled.
• Monitor cellar and wine storage conditions and promptly report any issues.
• Ensure proper stock rotation and appropriate handling of wines.
• Report damaged, missing, expired, or compromised stock to the Head Sommelier/Chef.
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and proper condition of the wine cellar.
• Coordinate with the Head Sommelier/Chef regarding inventory discrepancies, replenishment requirements, and stock concerns.

E. Staff Support & Learning

• Attend regular wine education and staff training sessions.
• Participate in pre-service briefings.
• Share relevant wine knowledge with service colleagues as appropriate.
• Learn proper wine service techniques and standards.
• Seek continuous development through formal wine education and producer training.

F. Wine Revenue Contribution

The Assistant Sommelier is expected to support restaurant wine sales through excellent service rather than direct sales pressure.

Responsibilities include:

• Making appropriate wine recommendations under the guidance of the Head Sommelier/Chef.
• Supporting wine pairing sales.
• Introducing guests to suitable premium wines.
• Helping create positive wine experiences that encourage repeat purchases.
• Supporting wine dinners, tastings, and other revenue-generating beverage events.

Qualifications

Required

• Genuine passion and interest in wine
• Hospitality, restaurant, or customer-service experience
• Strong communication skills
• Professional appearance and demeanor
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn
• Good attention to detail
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced fine-dining environment
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays

Preferred

• WSET Level 1 or Level 2
• Court of Master Sommeliers Introductory Sommelier or equivalent
• Hospitality, culinary, or beverage-related education
• Previous experience as a wine server, wine attendant, bartender, or restaurant service professional
• Fine-dining or luxury hospitality experience

Certification is preferred but not required for candidates who demonstrate strong wine knowledge, passion, and potential.

Career Development

This role is designed as a development position for an aspiring sommelier.

The successful candidate will be encouraged to pursue:

• WSET Level 2 and Level 3
• Court of Master Sommeliers certifications
• Producer masterclasses
• Wine tastings and educational events
• Winery visits
• Wine dinners and industry events

With strong performance and development, the role may progress to:

Assistant / Junior Sommelier → Sommelier → Senior Sommelier / Head Sommelier

Compensation & Benefits

Recommended package:

• Base salary: ₱25,000–₱30,000 depending on experience and wine qualifications
• Service charge: Based on restaurant distribution
• Regular staff wine tastings and producer training
• Opportunities to attend wine dinners, masterclasses, and industry events