William Kelley

William Kelley has quickly become one of the most respected figures in wine criticism, known for his sharp intellect, deep historical knowledge, and precise palate. As a critic for The Wine Advocate, Kelley primarily covers Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne, and California.

Kelley grew up in England, where his love for wine was nurtured early on by his family. He pursued academic studies at the University of Oxford, earning a degree in history. During his time there, he became fascinated by the culture and heritage of wine, with a particular focus on Burgundy—a region he now critiques extensively.

Following his academic career, Kelley immersed himself in the wine trade, gaining practical experience that would inform his criticism. Before joining The Wine Advocate in 2017, he contributed to Decanter and other notable wine publications, establishing himself as a thoughtful commentator on the world of wine.

William Kelley has a particular affinity for Burgundy, both red and white. He champions producers who emphasize tradition and terroir such as Domaine de la Romanee Conti, Armand Rousseau and Roulot. Kelley’s expertise also extends to Champagne where he highlights grower-producers and focusses on wines that offer complexity and character. Growing up in the UK he has a deep love for the grape variety Cabernet, so he has extensive knowledge of Bordeaux and California.

Here are some wines within our portfolio, that contain reviews and scores by William Kelley