Sommelier

City Winery New York•New York, NY

10d

About The Position

A rare opportunity to join the City Winery team as we reimagine the future of live music and hospitality. City Winery to deliver the highest end combined culinary and cultural experience to our customers who are passionate in sharing wine, music, and culinary arts. We are a unique facility, combining a fully functioning winery with intimate concerts, food & wine classes, private events in a variety of configurations, and fine dining. We have created a compelling mix for our sophisticated clientele of foodies, and active cultural patrons—bringing the wine country experience to the middle of a large city. Position Summary Hourly + Commission opportunity! Sommeliers are in-house wine and beverage experts whose focus is on maximizing overall beverage sales and delivering an exceptional guest experience. The Somm is responsible for overall guest service and satisfaction, recommending wine and food pairings, educating guests on beverage selections, and beverage department support in areas such as monthly inventory. Specific certifications are not required, but a strong fundamental knowledge of the wine regions of the world – both Old and New World – along with producer familiarity and vintage knowledge is mandatory. The most essential component to be a successful Sommelier will be the earnest desire to propel the wine program forward through clear communication and organization, a curiosity to learn more, and a willingness to share our expertise with guests and staff in a helpful, thoughtful way.

Requirements

2+ years sommelier experience in a fast-paced restaurant
Extensive knowledge of and a genuine love for wine, winemaking, beer and spirits
Ability to consistently deliver high-quality guest experiences, exceed guest expectations, and strive to create a memorable experience at every City Winery visit
Strong work ethic, team player, and exceptional guest service skills
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Polished presentation
Ability to take direction from others and accept constructive criticism
Effective communication and interpersonal skills with a proven ability to build positive relationships with coworkers and guests
Aptitude to resolve problems
Must be fluently literate in English including ability to read, write, and communicate, conduct basic business related mathematics, able to accurately function a POS
Ability to work a flexible schedule including days, nights, weekends, and holidays
Ability to perform physical requirements of the role including standing/walking for entirety of shift, bending, pulling, pushing, using stairs, lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds

Responsibilities

Maintain a clean, well-organized wine cellar in accordance with company standards
Recommend wine and beverage pairings to guests; upsell both tableside offerings and retail wine offerings for guests to take home
Keep staff abreast of beverage changes on the wine list
Assist with monthly inventory
Know about and defend our product brands
Know and be able to identify table and seat numbers
Maintain station cleanliness
Knowledge of cocktail list - drinks, specs, flavor profiles
Knowledge of WBTG facts - producer, variety, region, vintage, flavor profiles, history
Know the proper standard for opening bottles of wine and tableside service
Be warm, knowledgeable, and noticeably appreciative towards guests
Accommodate guests by making each individual feel welcomed
Act professionally and always maintain composure
Identify and report problems to management immediately
Be aware of service flow, dining timing, and be able to adjust for each guest’s individual needs
Implement and follow steps of service
Respond to the needs of the guests, taking orders, running food, and bussing tables
Oversee activities of your team in the station