Kevin San Jose

As New York State Field Coordinator for the Slow Wine Guide USA, Kevin San Jose brings a rare blend of deep regional insight, global wine expertise, and strategic business acumen. With a career that bridges fine wine curation, luxury hospitality, and wine economics, Kevin is uniquely positioned to showcase the producers who embody the Slow Wine philosophy of sustainability, authenticity, and respect for terroir.

At the helm of VINIFERA New York Hospitality Group’s wine and spirits program, Kevin has redefined what it means to create world-class wine experiences. In 2023, he was named to Wine Enthusiast’s Future40 Innovators & Tastemakers for his groundbreaking work in elevating the wines of the Finger Lakes and New York State to national and international prominence.

Kevin’s credentials are among the most elite in the wine industry. A WSET Diploma holder—an achievement of rigor and dedication he completed in just 11 months—he is also an Advanced Sommelier Candidate with the Court of Master Sommeliers. He holds an impressive array of specialist certifications, including French, Italian, and Spanish Wine Scholar (Highest Honors); WSG Champagne Master and Bordeaux Master; Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW); Certified Specialist of Spirits (CSS); Certified Sherry and Madeira Wine Specialist; and Certified Wines of Chile® Ambassador, among various others.

Beyond his wine knowledge, Kevin’s business education further distinguishes him. He holds an MBA from Rutgers University and has completed executive programs in omnichannel marketing and operations management at Wharton (University of Pennsylvania), strategic leadership at Dartmouth and University of London, and luxury brand management through LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy). 

As part of the Slow Wine Guide USA, Kevin applies this rare combination of expertise and vision to highlight New York’s diverse and dynamic wine regions—from the cool-climate Finger Lakes to Hudson Valley, Long Island, and beyond—while championing sustainability and authenticity. His ultimate pursuit of the rare dual title of Master Sommelier and Master of Wine underscores his drive to push the boundaries of excellence in the global wine industry.