Is Being a Sommelier a Good Career?
A sommelier is an expert in wine who educates others about it, so they understand how to pair and serve it harmoniously with food. Their education and experience make them invaluable resources in restaurants, where they collaborate closely with chefs and kitchen staff to craft a comprehensive wine-and-food menu.
If you aspire to become a sommelier or already hold the position, it is essential that you develop your skillsets. This could involve taking courses on wine or joining an organized tasting group. Furthermore, make time to visit wine regions often and taste wines in various settings.
The wine industry is an exciting and rapidly-developing field, providing plenty of career prospects for sommeliers. As of 2019, they boast an unemployment rate under 6.5% – making it an ideal career choice for anyone looking to begin or continue their wine journey.
Somms typically work in high-end restaurants, where they are responsible for managing a stock of alcoholic beverages. Their tasks include sourcing new wines, managing existing supplies and collaborating with chefs on delicious wine and food pairings.
Becoming an effective sommelier requires an in-depth knowledge of wine and the ability to explain it clearly for others. Furthermore, you should have knowledge about the differences between various types of wines and how they pair with food.
Sommeliers must possess the capacity to work under pressure and possess excellent concentration skills. Their job entails guaranteeing all guests receive the service they expect, which can be quite demanding at times.
As a sommelier, it is essential to maintain an upbeat outlook. While the job can be demanding at times, the satisfaction that comes from helping people discover their favorite wines more than makes up for any stress you may encounter along the way.
Another advantage of working as a sommelier is the chance to meet and interact with many fascinating individuals. This provides an excellent platform for building new friendships and learning from experienced professionals in the industry.
Competition for sommelier positions is fierce, so it’s essential that you possess the necessary credentials. Some requirements include a Bachelor’s degree or postsecondary certificate in wine, food, and hospitality management.
If you are not a native English speaker, taking some language courses might be beneficial in preparation for this position. It will also enable you to gain more insight into the culture of the country where your employer is based.
Sommeliers typically earn hourly and may need to work long hours, including weekend shifts. They must be adaptable and capable of working in various settings since this job often involves working at busy restaurants.
Sommeliers may work in wine bars or other establishments, where they are responsible for stocking a wide range of wines and serving customers. Furthermore, they must guarantee the quality of these beverages by training colleagues on wine tasting and sommelier techniques.
