Sommelier

Join Ashford Castle and become part of a legendary story. As Ireland’s only double Forbes Five-Star Hotel & Spa, Ashford Castle is a true icon of Irish heritage and a proud member of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection. Beyond its grand stone gates lies an unforgettable experience. Once home to the Guinness family, this 800-year-old castle offers award-winning luxury, exceptional dining, a world-class spa, and a passionate team dedicated to creating unforgettable moments. Voted No. 1 Resort Hotel in the UK & Ireland by Travel + Leisure and proud to have retained the Forbes Five-Star award in 2025.

Key responsibilities of the Sommelier will include:

• Consistently meet and exceed guest expectations in the service of wines and beverages.
• Prepare the George V Dining Room for lunch and dinner wine service to the highest standard.
• Maintain accurate inventory of all wines and spirits.
• Ensure the correct care and maintenance of glassware and equipment is carried out daily.
• Conduct private wine tastings in our historic cellar.
• Deliver knowledgeable, precise, and attentive wine service to every guest.
• Ensure guest satisfaction by offering confident recommendations and responding promptly and professionally to requests and concerns.
• Provide exceptional guest care and personalised service at all times, anticipating needs and taking proactive steps to exceed expectations wherever possible.

The ideal candidate for the Sommelier position will:

• Have a minimum 1 year previous experience in a hospitality setting/fine dining setting.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in wine; a relevant qualification WSET L2 is preferred.
• Possess a warm, outgoing, and approachable personality.
• Be enthusiastic, adaptable, and flexible with working hours, available to work 5 days across a 7 day period (weekends & Bank Holidays included).
• Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Show strong attention to detail and commitment to high standards.
• Be legally eligible to work in Ireland.
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage workload efficiently.

What's in it for you?

• Professional, award winning training and development opportunities
• Discounted accommodation rates with Red Carnation Hotel Collection
• Annual Staff Appreciation Party and other Employee Recognition Events
• Discounted rates with many local businesses and third party service providers (including Estate Activities)
• Heavily subsidised accommodation (subject to availability)
• Free meals on duty
• Complimentary dry cleaning of business attire
• Recommend friend and family bonus scheme
• Two paid volunteering days each year
• Holiday allowance increasing with length of service up to 25 days
• Hotel based recognition incentives
• Free access to Employee Assistance Programme

committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

As part of the recruitment process, we may electronically scan and securely store a copy of your passport, visa and/or ID card for the purpose of verifying the authenticity of the document and establishing your Right to Work in the Republic of Ireland, in line with statutory requirements.