This logo isn't an ad or affiliate link. It's an organization that shares in our mission, and empowered the authors to share their insights in Byte form.
Rumie vets Bytes for compliance with our
Standards.
The organization is responsible for the completeness and reliability of the content.
Learn more
about how Rumie works with partners.
Photo by Javier Balseiro on UnsplashDo 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!
What do sommeliers actually do?
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.
Quiz
What are the benefits of having a sommelier at a restaurant? Select all that apply:
All of these answers are some benefits of having a sommelier at a restaurant.
What do I need to become a sommelier?
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.
Did you know?
Even though becoming a sommelier requires an expansive knowledge about wine around the world, having a niche from a specific region could help you stand out from other sommeliers.
Where can I work as a sommelier?
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
You'll love it if you...
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.
Look for another career path if you...
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.
Choose the future sommelier!
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
Quiz
Who sounds like they would be a great match for a sommelier?
Lauren is the best choice for a sommelier position. Her passion for working with people and making recommendations to her friends are some of the qualities that would make her a great fit as a sommelier.
Take Action
Does it sound like a sommelier could be a good path for you?
If so...
This Byte has been authored by
Lisa LaBeau
Learning & Development