Jonathan Kleeman

Jonathan Kleeman is a UK-based sommelier, wine buyer, and hospitality consultant with over 18 years of hands-on industry experience. He’s worked at some of the finest establishments in the world, from five-star hotels like The Ritz to Michelin-starred kitchens including Restaurant Story, Orwells, and Social Eating House, as well as the prestigious One Hotel Mayfair. His career has always blended deep wine knowledge with a sharp eye for service and operations. Now working independently through his consultancy, JK Wine Consultancy, Jonathan advises private clients, restaurants, and global brands on everything from wine list development to operational strategy. His approach is rooted in substance over flash, building systems that actually work, cultivating teams that thrive, and curating guest experiences that leave a mark. He’s ranked among the Top 50 Sommeliers in the world and Top 10 in the UK, with certifications from the Court of Master Sommeliers. A regular media contributor and international wine judge, Jonathan’s insights have been featured in Forbes, The Times, Newsweek, Refinery29, and in the Pour where he writes on the future of wine, emerging tech in hospitality, and the changing landscape of drinking culture.