A wine sommelier (often just called a sommelier) is a trained wine professional who specializes in wine knowledge, service, and pairing wine with food—usually in fine dining, hospitality, or luxury settings

What a sommelier actually does

• Curates wine lists – selects wines that fit the restaurant’s cuisine, style, and budget

• Advises guests – recommends wines based on taste preferences and food orders

• Food & wine pairing – matches wines to enhance the dining experience

• Wine service – proper opening, decanting, temperature, and glassware

• Cellar management – inventory, storage conditions, and purchasing

• Education – trains staff and sometimes hosts tastings or wine dinners

Levels of sommeliers

Not all sommeliers are the same level—there’s a hierarchy:

• Introductory / Certified Sommelier – foundational knowledge

• Advanced Sommelier – deep regional, service, and tasting expertise

• Master Sommelier (MS) – elite level; fewer than ~300 worldwide

Many follow certification paths like the Court of Master Sommeliers, known for its famously difficult exams.

Where sommeliers work

• Michelin-star restaurants

• Luxury hotels & resorts

• Private clubs & yachts

• High-end wine retailers

• Wine consulting, education, or wine investment advisory