Job Description

Situated in Downtown’s 2nd Street District, Austin Proper Hotel and Residences offers an artful immersion in lifestyle and wellbeing. With emphasis on collaboration, the passionate, compelling vision of designer Kelly Wearstler meets the culinary creativity of Austin tastemaker MML Hospitality. Essentials include 244 rooms and suites, 99 branded residences, four unique settings for dining and drink, and a focus on wellness with a dedicated spa and fitness center. Guests can also enjoy a variety of atmospheric spaces for events, including a 5th floor pool deck with an elevated Texas-inspired Mexican restaurant offering small-batch tequilas and Lady Bird Lake views.

Job Overview

The Sommelier is a wine expert responsible for curating, managing and recommending the wine list for Austin Proper's restaurants, ensuring an exceptional guest experience through wine pairings, recommendations and service. You will provide expert knowledge on wine and beverage options, maintain the wine cellar and assist guests with wine-related questions. The Sommelier plays a key role in elevating the dining experience, enhancing guest satisfaction and supporting overall beverage sales through effective recommendations and wine-related services.

Essential Job Duties & Responsibilities

Wine Selection & Management

• Curate, manage and maintain the wine list, ensuring a diverse selection of wines that complement the menu and align with Austin Proper's concept and brand
• Work closely with the Executive Chef and F&B team to create wine pairings that enhance the dining experience for guests
• Regularly update the wine list to reflect seasonal changes, new arrivals and industry trends, ensuring it remains fresh and relevant
• Manage the wine cellar, overseeing proper storage conditions, organization and inventory control
• Collaborate with vendors and distributors to source high-quality wines and negotiate pricing and supply terms

Guest Interaction & Service

• Greet guests and provide detailed wine recommendations based on their preferences, dietary restrictions and food choices, offering expert pairing advice
• Conduct wine tastings for guests or special events, providing an engaging and educational experience about the wines being served
• Deliver exceptional service by presenting and opening wine bottles, ensuring proper serving temperatures and pouring techniques
• Educate guests on wine varieties, regions, and wine production techniques in a professional and approachable manner

Training & Development

• Train and mentor staff on wine knowledge, service techniques, and wine pairings, ensuring that all front-of-house employees are equipped to make informed wine recommendations
• Conduct regular tastings for the team to expand their knowledge and maintain a high standard of service
• Keep the team informed about the latest wine trends, menu updates, and promotional activities related to wine and beverages

Wine Pairing & Menu Integration

• Collaborate with the culinary team to ensure that the wine list complements the seasonal menus and enhances the flavors of the dishes served
• Provide expert wine pairing suggestions for events, private dining, and special occasions, working with the event planning team to create unique experiences
• Create and promote wine-based events, such as wine dinners, tastings, and pairing events to attract guests and increase sales

Inventory Management & Cost Control

• Monitor wine inventory levels, ensuring that the stock is regularly replenished and that the cellar is well-maintained
• Control costs by managing stock efficiently, avoiding overstocking or wastage, and maximizing revenue from wine sales
• Maintain detailed records of wine sales and consumption to ensure profitability and cost-effectiveness

Compliance & Standards

• Ensure that all wine service follows the hotel’s or restaurant’s policies and local regulations, including those related to alcohol service and licensing
• Regularly check wine storage areas for cleanliness and organization, adhering to health and safety regulations
• Maintain all wine-related equipment, ensuring it is clean and in good working order

Events & Special Projects

• Plan and execute wine-focused events, tastings, and promotions to enhance the guest experience and drive sales
• Participate in wine industry events, seminars, and educational opportunities to keep up with trends and expand personal expertise
• Assist with the development and promotion of wine lists for special events, banquets and corporate functions

Education and/or Experience

• Certification as a Sommelier (such as Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET, or a similar qualification) is preferred
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience working as a Sommelier or in a wine-focused role in a fine dining environment or upscale hotel
• In-depth knowledge of wines, vineyards, production techniques, and wine regions
• Proven experience in wine list curation, inventory management, and wine sales
• Strong understanding of food and wine pairings and the ability to communicate wine characteristics effectively

Skills/Specialized Knowledge

• Exceptional knowledge of wines, including varietals, regions, and production methods
• Strong communication skills with the ability to educate and engage guests about wines in an approachable and engaging manner
• Expertise in wine and food pairing to enhance the dining experience
• Proficiency in wine service, including decanting, pouring, and presenting bottles to guests
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage inventory and stock levels effectively
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced, high-volume dining environment

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand for long periods and move between dining areas, wine cellars, and storage rooms
• Ability to lift and carry heavy wine cases (up to 40 pounds) and other related items
• Ability to work in various environmental conditions, including cool cellar temperatures and busy dining areas
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the demands of the dining service

Company Overview

Proper Hospitality is a diverse team of passionate individuals who share a common love for hotels and the art of hospitality. Our philosophy is simple: there is a right way to do things, and anything less just isn’t proper. We are seeking the best of the best—both within and outside the industry—to join us in building a new kind of lifestyle hospitality company, inspired by a centuries-old tradition. Our work is challenging and fast-paced, but above all, it is rewarding.

We bring our vision to life —to inspire and transport people —by seeking like-minded candidates who embody our ethos, The Pillars of Proper:

• Care Proper: We are natural and gracious hosts to all.
• Achieve Proper: We are committed to excellence.
• Imagine Proper: We are resourceful.
• Present Proper: We have an appreciation for style and culture.

Proper Hospitality is an equal-opportunity employer. We provide employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other federally or state-protected category.

We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in accordance with local Fair Chance Hiring Ordinances.

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