A sommelier is a highly knowledgeable and qualified wine professional who typically works in a fine dining establishment. They are responsible for developing wine lists and books, delivering wine service, and training other restaurant staff. A sommeliers role includes pairing and suggesting wines that will best complement each particular food menu item, which requires a deep knowledge of how food and wine work in harmony. They also work on the floor of the restaurant and are in direct contact with restaurant patrons, and have a responsibility to work within the taste preference and budget parameters of the patron.
Becoming a sommelier takes years of education and experience, and it represents knowing about all aspects of wine, including its production and history, as well as the art of wine and food pairing. A sommeliers responsibilities include:
- Developing wine lists and books
- Delivering wine service
- Training other restaurant staff
- Pairing and suggesting wines that will best complement each particular food menu item
- Working on the floor of the restaurant and being in direct contact with restaurant patrons
- Working within the taste preference and budget parameters of the patron
A sommeliers role may be considered broader than working only with wines, and may encompass all aspects of the restaurants service, with an enhanced focus on customer service.
