Sommelier F/M/X

About the job

About Orient Express

Artisan of travel since 1883, Orient Express sublimates the art of travel with its luxury trains, hotels, and sailing yachts. The brand has just launched its first hotel, Orient Express La Minerva, in Rome – which will be followed by Orient Express Venezia at Palazzo Donà Giovannelli in 2026. The experience continues with the recent launch of La Dolce Vita Orient Express train, followed by Orient Express Corinthian in 2026, the first of two Orient Express Sailing Yachts, and finally, the return of L’Orient Express train to railways. Since 2022, Orient Express is part of Accor Group’s leading collection of luxury brands with a century-old legacy in the hotels and fine- dining sectors. In 2024, Accor and LVMH entered into a strategic partnership to accelerate the development of Orient Express. Follow the journey at @orientexpress on Instagram or visit the website at www.orient-express.com.

About Orient Express La Minerva

Considered as the beloved capital of the Orient Express legend, Rome is the first Orient Express hotel, La Minerva, in 2025. Orient Express has entrusted the interior architecture and artistic direction of the hotel Hugo Toro. The former Palazzo Fonseca is a sumptuous 17th-century palace with a huge, majestic façade. A place of memory still adorned with its Roman columns, sculptures by Rinaldo Rinaldi, a disciple of Canova, and the fascinating goddess Minerva. At the end of 2024, a new décor and interior inspired by the Roman domus and the riches of the "Eternal City" will be revealed with a new touch of contemporary elegance.

Position Overview

The Sommelier supports the Food & Beverage team in delivering an outstanding wine and beverage experience within the restaurant of a five-star luxury hotel. As a specialist in wines and cellar management, the Sommelier plays a key role in enhancing the guest dining experience through expert recommendations, refined service, and meticulous attention to quality and presentation.Working under the guidance of the Restaurant Manager and Head Sommelier (where applicable), and in close collaboration with the kitchen and service teams, the Sommelier contributes to maintaining the hotel’s high standards of excellence, consistency, and luxury hospitality.This role represents an excellent opportunity for a passionate and knowledgeable professional seeking to develop a career in wine service within a prestigious luxury hotel environment.

Main Activities

The Sommelier will support the daily beverage operations of the restaurant, with a strong focus on wine service, cellar organization, and guest engagement.

• Provide professional and personalized wine recommendations, pairing suggestions, and beverage guidance to guests.
• Perform wine service according to fine-dining and five-star hotel standards, including correct presentation, opening, and pouring techniques.
• Support the management, organization, and maintenance of the wine cellar, ensuring proper storage conditions and stock rotation.
• Assist in monitoring wine inventory levels, reporting shortages, breakages, and quality issues.
• Contribute to the development, updating, and presentation of the wine list in line with the restaurant’s concept and positioning.
• Collaborate closely with the kitchen brigade to ensure harmonious food and wine pairings.
• Support the training of service staff on wine knowledge, service techniques, and beverage upselling.
• Ensure compliance with hygiene, safety, and food & beverage service standards.
• Assist in controlling beverage costs, minimizing waste, and supporting revenue optimization through informed sales.
• Manage guest preferences, special requests, and VIP experiences with discretion and professionalism.
• Participate in wine tastings, supplier meetings, and product evaluations as required.
• Uphold the hotel’s brand values, grooming standards, and luxury service culture at all times.

• Previous experience as a Sommelier or Wine Steward in luxury hotels, fine-dining restaurants, or high-end hospitality venues.
• Recognized sommelier certification or professional wine education (e.g. AIS, WSET, Court of Master Sommeliers) is highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of international wines, with particular attention to Italian and European regions; spirits knowledge is an advantage.
• Passion for wine, gastronomy, and guest experience excellence.
• Fluent in Italian and good command of English; additional languages are a plus.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a confident and engaging service style.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-standard environment.
• Professional appearance and demeanor consistent with five-star hotel standards.
• Flexibility to work shifts, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Legal right to work in Italy.

• A competitive salary package
• ALL - Heartist® Program: Employee benefit card offering discounted rates at all ACCOR locations and partner venues worldwide.
• Learning & development: Opportunity to develop your talent and grow within your property and across the world! 

Our commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: 
We are an inclusive company and our ambition is to attract, recruit and promote diverse talent.