Jonathan Kleeman

Wine Consultant

and Hospitality Operations Specialist

Crafting Exceptional Wine Experiences and Hospitality Solutions

Jonathan Kleeman brings 18 years of expertise honed at world-renowned establishments such as The Ritz Hotel, Social Eating House, and Orwells. A certified sommelier and award-winning wine consultant, Jonathan combines a deep passion for wine with a commitment to hospitality excellence.

As the founder of JK Wine Consultancy, Jonathan collaborates with private clients, restaurants, and multinational companies to design tailored wine programs, refine operations, and curate unforgettable events. Previously, he served as Consulting Wine Buyer and Sommelier for the celebrated Story Group, home to the 2-Michelin-starred Restaurant Story in London, Dovetail in Mayfair, and Story Cellar in Covent Garden.

Jonathan’s work reflects his belief in innovation and connection—whether advising on wine investments, curating unique drink experiences, or exploring the intersection of hospitality and emerging technologies.

EXPERIENCE

What Can I Do For You?

Whether you’re looking to make informed choices about the wines you enjoy or invest in, I offer expert guidance tailored to your needs, no matter the scale. I also curate bespoke wine and drink lists for events ranging from grand receptions and festivals to intimate meetings and private gatherings.

My Experience

From starting as a kitchen pot washer to honing my craft as a Sommelier alongside some of the finest talents in hospitality—both on the floor and in the kitchen—at renowned establishments such as The Ritz Hotel, Social Eating House, and Orwells, I’ve built a wealth of expertise. My journey spans wine competitions, consulting for private clients, and advising multinational companies, bringing a unique blend of hands-on experience and industry insight.

What Can I Do For You?

Restaurant Opening & Hospitality Consulting

Menu development, operational setup, staff training, and more.

Wine Buying & Cellar Management

Expert advice tailored to your taste and investment goals.

Event Curation

Hosting tastings, masterclasses, and pairing experiences that leave lasting impressions.

Writing & Content Creation

Articles, tasting notes, and brand storytelling that captivate and inform.

Clients

Awards & Recognition

#11

World's Best Sommeliers' Selection

I am honoured to be part of the prestigious World’s Best Sommeliers’ Selection tasting panel for 2024 and 2025. This esteemed group comprises renowned international experts handpicked from William Reed’s extensive network of professionals associated with the World’s 50 Best Restaurants.

Harpers' Top Sommeliers 2024

Ranked #6 on Harpers' prestigious Top Sommeliers 2024 list, I was recognized for my expertise and contributions to the wine industry. The selection process included nominations from the trade and evaluation across key criteria such as experience, list creation, customer service, innovation, and food pairing excellence.

#11

Top 100 Sommeliers 2024

Ranked #11 in the Top 100 Sommeliers 2024, I was recognized as one of the UK’s finest sommeliers. This prestigious annual ranking evaluates professionals based on a rigorous points system and is curated by Sommelier Edit. Criteria include expert wine knowledge and qualifications, management responsibilities, industry experience, and seniority, as well as accolades and competition achievements.

As Seen On

Writings and Stories from the World of Wine and Hospitality

Jonathan Kleeman is not just a wine expert but a storyteller, blending his deep industry knowledge with engaging narratives. As a contributor to prestigious publications like Rolling Stone Culture Council, Forbes, and The Times, Jonathan writes about wine, hospitality, and the art of fine living.

Explore his insights on wine trends, fine dining, and hospitality innovation, or hire Jonathan to craft compelling content tailored to your brand or publication.

Official Ambassador

Discover the Kairos Wine Aerator

The Kairos Wine Aerator revolutionizes wine enjoyment as the world’s first contactless wine aerator, using cutting-edge electromagnetic wave technology to enhance flavors and aromas in seconds. Compact and portable, it can aerate up to four glasses simultaneously, offering a seamless solution for wine enthusiasts on the go. By accelerating oxygen molecules on the wine's surface, Kairos replicates the effects of traditional decanting—without the wait or physical contact. This innovative design ensures precise aeration tailored to each wine type, delivering an exceptional tasting experience with efficiency and ease.

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What Others Say

"I have enjoyed working and tasting with Jonny during his time in the on-and-off trade. His outstanding wine knowledge and palate are amongst the best I have encountered. Jonny is an outstanding operator and carefully selects high-quality, intriguing wines, and, most importantly, the right fit for his clients. I look forward to working with him on future projects."

Harry Crowther

Writer & Wine Educator

"You won't get a more passionate, committed, and up-to-speed sommelier, or as he calls himself 'head of hydration,' than Jonathan Kleeman. He is full of ideas, opinions, and great company. He would be the ideal dinner party guest as he would not only be able to talk about the wines he would make you all laugh at the same time. A unique combination of wine knowledge with the ability to communicate and talk about wine to every one. Sign him up."

Richard Siddle

Co-Founder & Editor of The-Buyer.net

In the Press

I contribute regular articles, features, and insights to esteemed publications, sharing my expertise in wine, events, hospitality and the art of fine living.

Restaurants Made Big Changes to Tackle the Pandemic. Many Stuck Around

During the COVID-19 pandemic, restaurants implemented significant changes to adapt, many of which have become permanent. Enhanced sanitation measures, digital...

MSN

December 14, 2024

Restaurants Made Big Changes to Cope With the Pandemic. Lots of Them Have Stuck

The pandemic accelerated technological adoption in restaurants, with innovations like QR code menus and self-service kiosks becoming mainstream. QR codes...

Business Insider

October 29, 2024

Taste the World: Wine Regions to Discover

Discover breathtaking wine regions perfect for a memorable getaway. From exploring picturesque vineyards and savoring local wines to enjoying unique...

Travel World Online

October 9, 2024

Hospitality Workers Reveal the Most ‘Rude’ and ‘Strange’ Customer Interactions They’ve Ever Had

The hospitality industry is facing a significant shift towards automation, driven by rising employment costs and economic pressures. Dame Karen...

Metro

August 4, 2024

Why Britons Are Looking Beyond Champagne for Sparkling Wine

British consumers are increasingly exploring sparkling wine alternatives beyond traditional Champagne and Prosecco. This shift is driven by a desire...