Overview
Sugrue South Downs is the award-winning producer of boutique English sparkling and still wines made by celebrated winemakers Dermot and Ana Sugrue.
As our cellar door and events offering grows, we are now recruiting a Winery Host to join our team from December 2025/January 2026.
Key responsibilities
* Welcome guests, provide background knowledge to the business, our winemakers, and the English wine industry, and host tutored tastings of our range of sparkling and still wines
* Mange bookings, compile and print tasting sheets, menus, and event attendance lists
* Set up the tasting room ahead of events and ensure it is kept clean and tidy, with glasses polished, fridges stocked, sales stock replenished, etc
* Order event sundries (e.g. cheese, charcuterie, crackers, water) via external suppliers
* Manage our cellar door retail offering, assisting customers with wine sales and booking future events, liaising with our warehouse team for deliveries/stock transfers
* Manage winery stocktake
* Communicate with guests in advance of tastings and follow up for feedback, reviews, sales
* Write event/sales report for directors
* Assist with Winemaker Tastings on the last Friday of each month
* Assist with the organisation and hosting of monthly trade tastings
* Assist with the organisation and hosting of Sugrue Sundays and other one-off events
* Provide ad hoc support to other areas of the business, as required
Who you will work with
Reporting to: Marketing Director, Sales Director, Winemaker
Working with: Assistant Winemaker, Warehouse Assistant, Estate Manager
External: Customers/guests, Suppliers, Contract workers
Direct reports: n/a
We’re looking for someone with
* A keen interest in fine and English wine, with an understanding of viticulture/wine production
* WSET qualifications (Level 3 or above is desirable. Training will be available, if required)
* 1-2 years minimum in an events/sommelier/cellar door/wine retail role
* Experience with handling, storing, and serving fine wines
* A positive attitude and a willingness to jump in and help out with the varied needs of a small business
* A warm and confident demeanour, with excellent written, verbal, and organisational skills
* A natural sales ability and a capacity to build long-term customer relationships
Essential requirements
* The right to work in the UK
* Driving licence and own transport
Benefits
* This is a brand-new and fulfilling role to make your own, working at one of England’s most exciting boutique wineries
* A competitive salary based on experience
* A generous staff discount on wine purchases
* Regular wine tasting opportunities with the team
* The opportunity to assist with harvest, if desired
The role will be based at our winery in Wivelsfield Green over five days (45 hours) per week. Please note that this role includes regular weekend work and varied shift patterns. There may also be occasional attendance required at events off-site.
To apply, send your cover letter and CV to info@sugruesouthdowns.com
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