Head Sommelier

At Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, we proudly offer two distinct luxury establishments situated on separate estates, yet operated seamlessly as one cohesive team. Whether you opt for the laid-back ambiance of Gilpin Hotel or the distinct combination of hotel and country house at Gilpin Lake House, your experience with us is designed to be effortlessly harmonious. 

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House are part of the prestigious Pride of Britain Hotels and we are proud to be one of the 580 members of Relais & Châteaux, an association of worldwide independent hotel and restaurant owners.

We're looking for a Head Sommelier to join the Gilpin Hotel, a 5 star hotel based near Windermere.

We have two beautiful on site restaurants, and to complement our food offerings, we're looking for passionate individuals who have an interest for mixology, wine and Champagne. There will be a lot of guest contact, so it's crucial that you love that side of the job too!

THE ROLE OF HEAD SOMMELIER

You will also work closely with our Executive Head Chef and Restaurant Manager creating suitable wine pairings for our restaurants, to delight our guests by helping them choose the best wine to complement their food.

• Possesses a professional, welcoming, and warm personality.
• Works with the chefs to ensure our aperitifs, digestifs and wine is aligned to our food and guest's tastes.
• Understands the guest, who they are, their expectations and how to effectively manage their part of the overall service experience to ensure repeat custom.
• Recommends food and wine pairings - advising guests on wines to suit their personal tastes and food choices.
• Informs guests about different varieties of wines and prices.
• Ensures wines are served at the right temperature and within the proper glassware.
• Serves water, aperitifs, digestifs and wine, and clearing and replacing glassware as required.
• Manages wine cellar and ensures it’s fully-stocked.
• Stores open bottles properly to maintain correct tastes.
• Ensures appropriate supply of clean glassware at all times.
• Updates waiting staff on available wines.
• Communicates clearly, professionally, and concisely.
• Identifies ways to improve sales or control cost.
• Takes pride in building rapport with your team, guests and suppliers.
• Works effectively as part of a team and individually.
• Leads, trains and develops a team of Sommeliers and Commis Sommeliers.

• Possesses WSET level 3 or equivalent Sommelier qualifications.

Salary: up to £40,000

Gratuities are allocated on a points basis, depending on development tiers. Although variable, average levels are projected as being from £670 per month.

Hours: 45 per week

• Canteen
• Company events
• Company pension
• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount
• Free or subsidised travel
• Gym membership
• On-site parking

Relocation assistance may be available

Staff transport provided free between staff houses and hotel