How to qualify as a sommelier and is there a good job opp in Ontario a wine making area?

Answer 1

For those who might read this question, a sommelier is a trained and knowledgeable wine professional, commonly seen as specialized staff working in fine restaurants, who specializes in wine.

Their principal work is in the area of wine procurement, storage, and wine cellar rotation. They are also responsible for the development of wine lists and are responsible overall for the delivery of wine service and training for the other restaurant staff. Working along with the culinary team, they pair and suggest wines that will best complement each particular food menu item. It could be argued that the role of a sommelier in fine dining today is strategically on par with that of the executive chef or chef de cuisine. A professional sommelier also works on the floor of the restaurant and is in direct contact with restaurant patrons. The sommelier has an ethical duty to work within the taste preference and budget parameters of the patron.

That being said, here are a few links that might help you. The second link is a job link JUST for sommeliers!

When I was asked to do the wine duties at my restaurant, both being the sommelier on the floor and the buyer, I had worked there for a few years, learned "how" to sell the wine (wine knowledge is one thing--upselling wine is another) and worked with the wait staff and bartenders.

Bon chance!