We are recruiting for a full time Sommelier to provide quality service to our guests, in line with the Forbes Five Star standards and The Red Carnation Hotels standards.
Location: Cong, County Mayo, Ireland .
Employment type: Full time.
Working pattern: 5 days over 7 days (including some weekends & Bank Holidays) and 2 days off.
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.
• 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 essential.
• 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.