We surveyed 370 sommeliers to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical sommelier. Here are the results.
How much intelligence is required as a sommelier?
Low
High
Working as a sommelier typically doesn’t require the use of high levels of intelligence in daily tasks.
Can I learn to become a sommelier?
Intrinsic Talent
Acquired Talent
A career as a sommelier typically depends predominantly on qualities you can gain through experience, with a small aspect of skills you are born with.
Is it easy to get a job as a sommelier?
Easy
Hard
It’s typically quite difficult to find a job as a sommelier. If you’re curious about the numbers, check out the job market for sommeliers.
Do sommeliers work full-time or part-time?
70% of sommeliers work in full-time roles while 30% work part-time.
Is being a sommelier stressful?
Low
High
Sommeliers tend not to find their jobs stressful, which likely contributes positively to career satisfaction.
Is being organized important as a sommelier?
Low
High
Organization is not considered a particuarly important part of being a sommelier.
How competitive is the workplace for sommeliers?
Low
High
Sommeliers see mild competition in their workplace.
Does being a sommelier require frequent time pressure to complete tasks?
Low
High
Time pressure tends not to be a major contributor of stress for sommeliers.
Are sommeliers allowed to express themselves creatively?
Low
High
Sommeliers are afforded a certain level of ability to express themselves creatively, compared to other careers.
Do sommeliers have control over the direction of their work?
Low
High
While sometimes the direction is set, occasionally sommeliers will have some flexibility over the direction of their work.
Is being a sommelier physically demanding?
Low
High
Being a sommelier may occasionally require demanding physical activity, which may make it not a suitable career choice for everyone.
Are sommeliers exposed to a wide variety of work?
Low
High
Sommeliers tend to have a monotonous work routine, with little variety in their day-to-day tasks.
Does being a sommelier require attention to detail?
Low
High
Attention to detail isn't necessarily required to be successful as a sommelier.
Does being a good sommelier require compassion and empathy?
Low
High
The ability to be compassion and empathetic isn't considered fundamental to success as a sommelier.