10 Expert Tips for Acing Your Sommelier Job Interview

SASA
May 2
2 min read

Becoming a sommelier requires more than wine knowledge — it’s about passion, service skills, and creating memorable guest experiences. Your job interview is the perfect opportunity to showcase your expertise and personality.

Here are some sommelier job interview tips from award-winning sommeliers, restaurant owners and wine educators:

Know the Wine List

Research the establishment’s wine list and food menu before your interview. Expression Wines Africa founder, Tawanda Marume, advises:

“Study the wine list, food menu, and wine programme if there is one.

This serves as a guide to understand the ideal person the employer is looking for and if it is a fit for your aspirations.”

Being well-informed demonstrates initiative and helps align you with the restaurant’s wine philosophy.

Brush Up on Food & Wine Pairing

Expect to be tested on your pairing skills. Employers will want to see how well you understand acidity, tannins, and complementary flavours. Marume warns against suggesting changes to the wine list too quickly — respect their existing programme while bringing your expertise.

Stay Updated on Industry Trends

Understanding trends like natural wines, biodynamic farming, and emerging regions is crucial. Employers value sommeliers who are adaptable and informed, especially if sustainability is part of their ethos.

Showcase Your Service Skills

A sommelier must be more than a wine expert — they must engage guests. George Young, Best Young Sommelier 2024, highlights:

“Speak clearly and with confidence. We do a lot of talking for a living.”

Your ability to make wine approachable is as valuable as technical knowledge.

Demonstrate Your Tasting Abilities

You may be asked to describe a wine. Be prepared to analyse aroma, body, acidity, tannins, and finish using professional terminology. This showcases your sensory skills and expertise.

Highlight Your Certifications & Experience

While many great sommeliers are self-taught, certifications add credibility. Young explains:

“Having qualifications behind your name does

show that you are serious about what you do.”

Be ready to discuss how your SASA certifications and competition experiences have shaped your wine service approach.

Upcoming Exams

Junior Sommelier Certificate - Cape Town

24 November 2025, 10:00–12:30|Cape Town

Junior Sommelier Certificate - Joburg

12 May 2025, 10:00–12:30|Randburg

Prepare for Common Interview Questions

Hiring managers will test your problem-solving and interpersonal skills. Expect questions like:

How would you help a guest unsure about wine?
Can you describe a time you handled a difficult customer?
What’s your favourite wine and why?
How do you manage wine inventory and cost control?

Dress Professionally & Be Punctual

First impressions matter. Matt Manning, chef and owner of Culture Wine Bar & Grub & Vine, advises:

“Having a good work ethic and attitude is more

important than what’s on your CV, so turn up on time!”

Matt Manning, Chef and Restaurant Owner

Arriving early, dressing smartly, and presenting yourself with confidence make a strong impact.

Be Ready to Open & Serve Wine

Practical skills matter. You may need to demonstrate bottle presentation, opening, and pouring techniques. Bring an opener — being over-prepared is always better.