Should I be a sommelier?

Photo by Javier Balseiro on Unsplash

Do you want to be exceptionally well-informed about the wonderful world of wine? Do you want to share that knowledge with others?

Then being a sommelier might be the right career path for you!

• Specialize in every aspect of serving wine and sometimes assist with all beverages at a restaurant.

• Create a wine list for guests at a restaurant of up to 200 or more different wines. They also collaborate with the chefs in the kitchen.

• Explain food and wine pairings to customers and make sure guests are satisfied with their individual preferences.

• Organize wine tastings at restaurants, companies, or private events. Sommeliers also train others about wine at establishments.

• Although formal education isn't always required, many people decide to study wine, sommelier, or beverage certifications.

• Gain experience with beverages and the hospitality industry.

• Join a wine tasting group. You can practice with family and friends by organizing wine tastings and become comfortable answering questions about which wines pair with certain food and dishes.

You can...

• Find work at fine dining restaurants.

• Lead wine tastings at wineries.

• Work at places such as resorts, hotels, cruise ships, and casinos.

• Become a teacher for a wine academy for in-person or online classes.

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

In the U.S., the average salary for a sommelier is 63,000 USD.

In Canada, the average salary for a sommelier is 44,000 CAD.

• Are passionate learning about wine and beverages.

• Want to work with people from around the world.

• Enjoy explaining and simplifying complicated wine topics.

• Are confident in front of an audience.

• Think outside the box while pairing food and wine together.

• Don't like wine or beverages.

• Don't have a growth mindset. Since there are new wine trends and different wines on the market frequently, you should constantly try to keep up with the industry news as a sommelier.

• Hate working evenings or holidays. However, the actual working hours depend on every job.

• Are sarcastic and condescending when people ask you questions that you think are obvious.

Samantha

• Prefers traveling in a small group

• Enjoys reading, watching movies, and listening to music in her free time

Mike

• Prefers working alone

• Never liked working during the weekend

Lauren

• People person

• Likes recommending different recipes to her friends

Does it sound like a sommelier could be a good path for you?

If so...