Wine Specialist

Wine Specialists are trained and knowledgeable professionals who often work in fine-dining restaurants. They specialise in all aspects of wine service, including wine and food pairing.

Wine Specialist Job Description

Create the restaurant's wine list and coordinate it with their food menu, meticulously pairing each dish with a selection of wines.

Recommend food and wine pairings based on guests’ personal tastes and food choices according to their preferences.

Ensure wines are served according to table service rules and etiquette, including the proper handling, presentation, and pouring of wines.

Manage the wine cellar, ensuring it is properly organised and consistently stocked with a diverse range of wines.

Select and purchase wines, sometimes even negotiate with suppliers to secure the best possible prices without compromising quality.

Note

Wine Specialists require good memory! Apart from remembering the different names of wines, you should also know where and when they were made to sell wine to customers.

What you should know about Wine Specialist jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

As Wine Specialists, you will primarily focus on curating and managing wine selections for restaurants, bars, or wine retailers.

Key Advice

Look out for job postings from any fine dining or five-star establishments! Attend many wine tastings and ensure to exchange business cards.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
Formal education is not necessary to become a Wine Specialist although many establishments prefer applicants with degrees in the Culinary Arts or Hospitality Management.

After graduating, you will need to get certified to work as a Wine Specialist. There are many institutions around the world that provide certification. Some of these include the International Sommelier Guild (ISG) and Worldwide Sommelier Association (WSA).
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a Wine Specialist career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Excellent Knowledge of Wines, Winemaking and Wine-tasting Techniques

Crucial for expert recommendations and customer experiences.

Synergies of Food and Beverages

Resourceful in elevating dining experiences and satisfying diverse palates.

Wine Service

Skilled in presenting, decanting, and serving wine, adhering to the highest standards of wine service etiquette.

Soft Skills

Communication

Ability to articulate wine characteristics, make recommendations, and engage customers about their choices.

Service Orientation

Understands and anticipates customer needs, and provides tailored wine suggestions.

Hospitality

Service-oriented - welcoming, attentive, and creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Which institutions can Wine Specialists get certified at?

The most popular institution is the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS). It is widely recognised as the premier international examining body. The CMS offers four levels of certification for Wine Specialists: introductory, certified, advanced and master Sommelier levels.

While not all levels need to be passed to work as a Wine Specialist, the level of certification does affect the salary received.
What are the working hours like for Wine Specialists?

Believe it or not, most Wine Specialists spend many more hours working than the regular 9-to-5 employee. While their days may not start early, as most fine dining restaurants open at noon, it can end very late. They may even work on their days off to inspect deliveries and check orders.

However, one of the greatest perks of their job is travelling to different places (even countries!) to sample and choose wines for their restaurant.
What are some emerging trends or developments in the Wine industry that consumers should be aware of?

Sustainable and Organic Wines: Increasing consumer interest in sustainably produced and organic wines, leading to a rise in eco-friendly vineyard practices and certifications.

Alternative Packaging: Growing popularity of alternative wine packaging such as cans, boxes, and kegs, offering convenience, portability, and reduced environmental impact.
What qualifications and certifications are necessary to become Wine Specialists?

In Singapore, aspiring Wine Specialists can pursue qualifications and certifications from internationally recognized institutions such as the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and the Court of Master Sommeliers.

These certifications are highly regarded globally and can provide Wine Specialists with the necessary knowledge and expertise to excel in Singapore's dynamic and diverse Wine industry.
How do Wine Specialists assist customers in selecting the right wine?

They ask targeted questions and actively listen to customers' preferences, such as taste preferences, food pairings, and the occasion. Wine Specialists gain insights to make tailored recommendations.

They also educate customers about different wine styles, grape varieties, and regional characteristics, empowering them to make informed choices and discover new wines aligned with their preferences.