Senior Sommelier & Wine Director

Our client, a premier luxury hospitality group, is seeking an exceptional Senior Sommelier & Wine Director to curate and manage their esteemed wine programs across multiple establishments. This is a unique, fully remote opportunity for a wine expert to oversee cellar management, selection, and guest experience without being tied to a specific physical location. You will be responsible for developing comprehensive wine lists, training staff, and ensuring the highest standards of wine service. This role requires extensive knowledge of global wines, excellent palate, and strong management capabilities. You will leverage technology and remote communication to connect with sommeliers and F&B managers on-site, providing strategic guidance and support.

Responsibilities: Develop and maintain an exceptional, diverse, and well-balanced wine list that complements culinary offerings and appeals to a discerning clientele. Source wines from reputable vineyards and distributors, negotiating pricing and terms to maximize value and quality. Oversee cellar management, including inventory control, proper storage, and aging programs for all wine stock. Conduct regular wine tastings and evaluations to ensure quality and consistency. Develop and implement wine training programs for front-of-house staff, enhancing their knowledge and service skills. Collaborate with Executive Chefs to create innovative food and wine pairing menus. Manage the wine budget, track expenses, and ensure profitability of the wine program. Stay current with global wine trends, new vintages, and emerging wine regions. Represent the company at wine events, festivals, and trade shows as needed. Utilize technology for remote reporting, inventory management, and team communication. Provide virtual consultations and support to on-site F&B teams. Qualifications: Advanced Sommelier certification (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers Advanced Sommelier, WSET Diploma in Wines) or equivalent extensive experience. Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in high-end wine programs within the luxury hospitality sector. Deep and comprehensive knowledge of global wine regions, varietals, vintages, and viticulture. Exceptional palate and tasting ability, with a nuanced understanding of wine characteristics. Proven experience in wine list development, cellar management, and inventory control. Strong negotiation and vendor management skills. Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and educate. Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience in training and mentoring staff. Proficiency with wine inventory management software and digital collaboration tools. Passion for fine wine and a commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences. This position is a fully remote role, offering flexibility to our esteemed wine professional based anywhere, while overseeing wine programs for establishments in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, IN and other locations. Our client prides itself on offering unparalleled guest experiences.