Sommelier

Join our amazing Elora Mill team and work in a beautiful environment, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. Share your passion for magnificent wine and delicious food. Create incredible guest experiences in our historic restaurant with stunning views from every window.

At the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, our wine program is a fundamental part of the dining experience — carefully curated to complement our cuisine and enhance each guest's journey. We are excited to be expanding our Sommelier team. We are looking for someone with a deep knowledge of wine, a warm and approachable style, and a passion for delivering exceptional hospitality. Reporting to the lead sommelier, the sommelier helps to manage the wine list and ensure that we are always sharing new and exciting options with our guests. They work closely with all other front and back of house teams to ensure the efficient operation of the restaurant, and to provide an extraordinary guest experience.

Compensation for this role of $38/hour, includes a base wage of $22/hour, plus direct tips from guests that have been estimated at an additional $16/hour. Tip amounts are paid directly by guests and are shown based on historical averages. They will vary depending on factors such as guest volume, and seasonality. While tips are not guaranteed, they have consistently contributed to overall earnings in this position.

What makes you the perfect candidate:

• You are passionate about providing memorable dining experiences.
• You are enthusiastic about wine and like to keep up with current trends.
• You enjoy working as part of a team and supporting those around you.
• You are highly organized and a skilled multitasker.
• You have a few years of serving experience and are looking to grow as a sommelier.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Guide guests through thoughtful wine selections and pairings, elevating their dining experience.
• Provide polished, professional service including table-side presentation, pouring, and decanting.
• Maintain an organized, well-stocked cellar with proper storage and accurate mapping.
• Track inventory, place orders, and ensure wine lists and POS systems are current.
• Collaborate with the Chef and culinary team to design pairings for Tasting Menus and special events.
• Train and inspire team members on wine-by-the-glass offerings, building confidence and knowledge across the service team.
• Support smooth service by ensuring proper glassware and decanters are available and communicating updates to the team during pre-shift briefings.
• Anticipate guest needs, personalize wine experiences, and ensure responsible alcohol service in line with Smart Serve standards.

Qualifications & Experience:

• WSET Level 3 (completed or in progress), or CMS/CAPS certification.
• Smart Serve certification (required).
• 3+ years of upscale serving or hospitality experience.
• Strong knowledge of wine regions, varietals, tasting notes, and pairings.
• Excellent communication skills, with a genuine and guest-focused approach.
• Organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Why Join the Elora Mill Team:

At the Elora Mill, you'll be part of something extraordinary:

• Be part of one of Ontario's most iconic dining destinations.
• Share your passion for wine in an environment that values quality, authenticity, and collaboration.
• Co-paid benefits for permanent team members after 3 months.
• Opportunities for growth within Pearle Hospitality's collection of properties.
• Discounts at all Pearle Hospitality properties (restaurants, golf, hotels and spas).
• Work in a breathtaking setting where history and modern hospitality meet.

Pearle Hospitality and affiliated companies, including Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, accommodate the needs of job applicants throughout its recruitment and selection processes in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. Accommodation needs must be provided in advance. To discuss your needs, please contact the hiring manager.

Job Type: Permanent

Pay: From $38.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Discounted or free food
• Employee assistance program
• Store discount

Application question(s):

• Are you presently or have you ever been employed by any affiliated Pearle Hospitality properties? If YES, List location

(ETT: Bread Bars, The Pearle Hotel & Spa, Cambridge Mill, Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, Ancaster Mill, Spencer's At The Waterfront, Whistle Bear Golf Club)

Experience:

• Serving: 3 years (preferred)

Work Location: In person