At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver exceptional bar service and host engaging whisky tastings for guests.
- Company: Cask & Vine, a vibrant whisky bistro in Edinburgh's Old Town.
- Benefits: Earn £13/hour, enjoy paid tips, staff food, and discounts.
- Other info: Opportunity for ongoing training and development in a fun, fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Join us to create unforgettable whisky experiences and grow your hospitality skills.
- Qualifications: Previous hospitality experience and a passion for whisky are preferred.
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 32000 £ per year.
We are looking for an enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and guest-focused Whisky Bartender & Tasting Host to join our team at Cask & Vine, an intimate wine and whisky bistro in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. This role is perfect for someone passionate about hospitality, drinks, and creating memorable guest experiences. You’ll split your time between delivering excellent bar service, recommending wines and whiskies, and hosting engaging whisky tastings and events for both tourists and local enthusiasts. We care far more about personality, attitude, and willingness to learn than ticking every box on paper. If you have strong hospitality instincts, confidence with guests, and a genuine interest in whisky, we’d love to hear from you.
What you’ll do:
- Deliver warm, attentive, and engaging service from guest arrival through to departure.
- Recommend and serve a range of beverages including whisky, wine, cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Share whisky knowledge confidently, including styles, regions, production methods, and flavour profiles.
- Host whisky tastings and events, guiding guests through curated whisky flights in an engaging and educational way.
- Conduct tableside tastings and confidently discuss pairings, flavour profiles, and recommendations.
- Prepare drinks to a consistently high standard with excellent attention to detail.
- Assist with light food preparation, including charcuterie and cheese boards, as required.
- Upsell tasting flights, premium pours, retail products, pairings, and events where appropriate.
- Maintain excellent cleanliness, organisation, and presentation standards across bar and floor.
- Follow all food safety, allergen, licensing, and health & safety procedures.
- Support stock management, restocking, opening/closing duties, and day-to-day venue operations.
What we’re looking for:
- Previous experience in a bar, restaurant, or hospitality role preferred.
- Strong guest service skills with a warm and engaging personality.
- Interest in whisky and willingness to continue learning.
- Confidence speaking with guests and making recommendations.
- Strong organisational skills and ability to work well under pressure.
- Comfortable working as part of a small team in a fast-paced environment.
- Experience hosting tastings, events, or presentations is beneficial but not essential.
- WSET, whisky qualifications, or similar training preferred but not required.
What’s in it for you:
- £13.00 per hour
- Approx. 30 - 40 hours per week
- Paid tips/service charge
- Staff food provided
- Staff discounts at venue and sister whisky/tobacco shop
- Training allowance and ongoing education opportunities
- Opportunity to develop whisky knowledge, event hosting skills, and hospitality leadership experience
Join us in creating memorable whisky and hospitality experiences in the heart of Edinburgh. To apply, please send your CV and a short cover letter telling us about your experience and why you’d be a great fit for the role.
Whisky Bartender & Tasting Host employer: Cask and Vine
Contact Detail:
Cask and Vine Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Whisky Bartender & Tasting Host
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the venue! Before your interview, pop into Cask & Vine and soak up the atmosphere. Chat with the staff, try a drink, and get a feel for the place. This shows us you’re genuinely interested and helps you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your whisky knowledge! Familiarise yourself with different styles, regions, and production methods. We love it when candidates can confidently share their passion for whisky during tastings or discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your guest interaction skills! Role-play with friends or family to get comfortable recommending drinks and hosting tastings. The more confident you are, the better we’ll see your potential to create memorable experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Whisky Bartender & Tasting Host
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for whisky and hospitality shine through. We want to see your personality and how much you love creating memorable experiences for guests!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in hospitality or bartending. Even if you don’t have direct whisky experience, focus on skills that show you can engage with guests and work well under pressure.
Be Authentic: We care more about who you are than just what’s on paper. Don’t be afraid to share your story and what makes you a great fit for our team. Authenticity goes a long way!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of joining us at Cask & Vine, make sure to apply directly through our website. It helps us keep track of applications and shows you’re serious about the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cask and Vine
✨Know Your Whisky
Brush up on your whisky knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss different styles, regions, and production methods. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Hospitality Skills
Prepare examples of how you've delivered excellent guest service in the past. Think about specific situations where you went above and beyond for a guest. This will highlight your warm personality and strong hospitality instincts.
✨Engage with Confidence
Practice speaking confidently about drinks and tastings. You might be asked to recommend a whisky or describe a tasting experience. Being articulate and engaging will demonstrate your ability to host tastings and connect with guests.
✨Be Ready to Learn
Express your willingness to learn and grow in the role. Mention any relevant training or courses you've taken, but also emphasise your enthusiasm for ongoing education in whisky and hospitality. This aligns perfectly with what they value in a candidate.