Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Sommelier Roles - 2025

As a sommelier, your role is to have an in-depth knowledge of wines and be able to effectively pair them with food, as well as provide excellent customer service. If you’re applying for a sommelier position, here are 20 up-to-date interview questions and answers to help you demonstrate your skills and experience in the field.

General Questions

• 1. Why did you choose to become a sommelier?
  Answer: I have always had a passion for wine and enjoy studying and tasting different varieties. As a sommelier, I am able to share my knowledge and help others appreciate and discover new wines.
• 2. How do you stay updated on industry and wine trends?
  Answer: I regularly read industry publications, attend wine tastings and seminars, and network with other sommeliers to stay informed on current trends and developments in the wine world.
• 3. What do you think are the most important qualities for a sommelier to have?
  Answer: Strong communication skills, passion for wine, attention to detail, and excellent customer service are all crucial for a successful sommelier.
• 4. How would you handle a difficult customer who refuses to take your wine recommendations?
  Answer: I would respectfully listen to the customer's preferences and provide alternative options that may better suit their taste. If they are still not satisfied, I would offer to find a different sommelier who may have a recommendation more to their liking.
• 5. Can you provide an example of a time when you had to handle a customer complaint?
  Answer: While working as a sommelier at XYZ restaurant, a customer complained that the wine they ordered was not up to their expectations. I calmly listened to their concerns and offered to replace the bottle with a different wine. After trying the second option, the customer was pleased and thanked me for my prompt and professional handling of the situation.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 6. What do you know about different wine regions and their specialties?
  Answer: I have a thorough understanding of the major wine regions around the world and the types of grapes and wines they are known for. For example, France is known for its Bordeaux and Burgundy wines while Argentina is known for its Malbec.
• 7. How do you properly store and care for wine?
  Answer: Wine should be stored in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature and humidity. Bottles should be stored horizontally to keep the cork moist and prevent oxidation. Wine should also be served at the appropriate temperature for best taste.
• 8. Can you explain the process of wine tasting?
  Answer: Wine tasting involves examining the color, smell, and taste of a wine. This includes looking at the wine's clarity and hue, swirling the wine to release aromas, and taking note of the wine's taste and finish on the palate.
• 9. How do you determine the best wine to pair with a specific food dish?
  Answer: I consider both the flavors and textures of the food and the wine. Wine and food should complement and balance each other, so a lighter food dish may pair better with a lighter wine while a richer, heavier dish may pair well with a fuller-bodied wine.
• 10. Have you had any experience creating a wine list? If yes, can you walk me through the process?
  Answer: Yes, I have worked on several wine lists in my previous roles. The process involves considering the restaurant's menu and clientele, selecting a variety of wines to meet their tastes and budget, and continuously updating the list to include new and unique options.

Behavioral Questions

• 11. Can you tell me about a time when you had to handle a difficult customer?
  Answer: In my previous role as a sommelier at ABC winery, I had a customer who was dissatisfied with the wine they purchased and became quite angry. I listened patiently to their concerns and offered to replace the bottle with a different option. By the end of their visit, the customer was happy and even wrote a positive review about their experience.
• 12. How do you handle working under pressure during busy periods?
  Answer: During busy periods, I prioritize tasks and stay focused on providing excellent customer service. I also communicate effectively with my team and delegate tasks when necessary to ensure everything runs smoothly.
• 13. How do you handle disagreements or conflicts with coworkers or superiors?
  Answer: I believe clear and respectful communication is key in resolving conflicts. I listen to all sides, express my perspective calmly and professionally, and work towards finding a solution that benefits everyone involved.
• 14. Can you share a time when you had to handle a wine-related emergency?
  Answer: Once, during a wine tasting event, a guest accidentally knocked over a bottle of wine, causing it to spill all over the table and floor. I quickly remained calm and located cleaning supplies to clean up the mess and continued with the event without disruption.
• 15. How do you handle situations where a customer is unfamiliar with wine and doesn't know what they want?
  Answer: I ask them questions about their taste preferences and make recommendations based on their answers. If they are still unsure, I may offer a tasting of a few different options for them to try and make a decision.

Situational Questions

• 16. What would you do if a customer returned a bottle of wine, claiming it was corked?
  Answer: First, I would apologize for their experience and offer to replace the bottle with a different option. If the customer still seemed dissatisfied, I would escalate the issue to the restaurant manager to ensure it is handled appropriately.
• 17. What would you do if a customer asked for a wine recommendation that you were not familiar with?
  Answer: In such a situation, I would ask the customer what they typically enjoy and use my knowledge of different wine regions and flavors to suggest similar options. If needed, I would also do some quick research to ensure I am providing accurate information.
• 18. How would you handle a situation where a wine shipment was delayed and a popular wine was out of stock at your restaurant?
  Answer: I would inform customers that the wine they requested is unavailable and offer a similar alternative. If there are no suitable options, I would apologize for the inconvenience and suggest they try the wine on their next visit.
• 19. What would you do if a customer asked for advice on how to properly store wine at home?
  Answer: I would share general guidelines for storage, such as keeping wine in a cool, dark place, ensuring the bottles are stored horizontally, etc. I would also offer to provide more detailed information or resources if needed.
• 20. How would you handle a situation where a customer ordered an expensive bottle of wine, then realized they didn't enjoy it?
  Answer: First, I would apologize for their experience and offer to replace the bottle with a different option. If the customer was still not satisfied, I would involve a manager and offer a refund or alternative solution.