Mert Kurnaz

Wine & Beverage Specialist / Sommelier / Bar & Operations Management

Istanbul, Türkiye

About

Experienced Wine & Beverage Specialist with over a decade in the F&B industry, holding progressive roles from barista to head barista, store manager, sommelier, and restaurant manager. Adept at leading premium outlets, managing wine and beverage programs, overseeing operational processes, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. Skilled in team training, menu development, supplier coordination, wine and food pairing, and cost control. SCA Barista Skills certified and WSET Level 2 trained, continuously refining expertise through tastings, workshops, and producer visits. Strong communication, leadership, and sales skills applied to enhance service standards and operational efficiency in luxury hospitality environments.

Experience

  • Sommelier at PARIS SOCIETY
    Apr 2026 - Present · 3 mos

    Mondaine de Pariso | Istanbul

  • Head Sommelier | Hakkasan İstanbul at Tao Group Hospitality
    Jun 2025 - Aug 2025 · 3 mos

  • Doğuş Hospitality & Retail Group (Istanbul, Türkiye)
    • Sommelier
      Jul 2024 - Jun 2025 · 1 yr

      As a Sommelier, I am responsible for the entire wine operation at Biz İstanbul. I manage processes such as creating and regularly updating the wine list, purchasing, stock control, developing food and wine pairing menus, and maintaining communication with producers and suppliers. I provide regular wine training sessions to the service team, contributing to their knowledge and confidence. I actively participate in wine tasting events, producer meetups, and special occasions. Working with a portfolio of local and international wines, I continue to develop my knowledge and skills in wine and distilled spirits through workshops and training programs.

    • Jr. Sommelier
      Jul 2023 - Jul 2024 · 1 yr 1 mo

      As a Junior Sommelier at Biz Istanbul Restaurant, I am responsible for wine service, wine stock control, wine inventory, and all operational processes related to wine.

  • Bar Manager at Lunapark Web3 Hub
    Sep 2022 - Jul 2023 · 11 mos

    As the Bar Manager, I am responsible for creating the bar menu, developing new recipes, and overseeing bar and service operations.

  • Fomilk (Full-time · 2 yrs 1 mo)
    • Sales Support Representative
      Nov 2021 - Sep 2022 · 11 mos

      Customer support and operation improvement in Horeca and chain stores.

    • Barista
      Sep 2020 - Sep 2022 · 2 yrs 1 mo

      Preparing food and drinks, developing new recipes and bar operation.