Cord's Head Sommelier Jiachen Lu ranked in Top 50 Sommeliers in the UK 2024

Nominations for the list come from sommeliers, hospitality professionals and diners from across the UK, and the ranking is based on the nominees’ experience, career, educational achievements, day to day responsibilities and performance in competitions.

During the ceremony held on 10^th June 2024, Jiachen was also awarded a place on the list of Top 5 Ones-to-Watch, recognising her great potential in the field.

Jiachen originally trained to as a lawyer, and practised law for six years in Chicago. Looking for a break from years of studying and working, she decided to attend Le Cordon Bleu London to study wine, initially just for fun. Soon after she started the programme, however, she realised she had found her real passion, which eventually prompted a significant career change.

She graduated from the Diploma of Wine Gastronomy and Management with Internship Pathway at Le Cordon Bleu London in 2018. After a sommelier internship at the Little Nell in Aspen, Jiachen returned in 2019 to attend the Diplôme de Cuisine which led to an internship opportunity at Le Gavroche in London.

Jiachen then took on a position as sommelier at Dinings SW3.During her time there she and fellow alumna Gail Li won the 2023 Gosset Matchmakers competition and, after winning the UK heat, competed at the 10thEdition of the Copa Jerez International Sherry Pairing Competition in Spain,returning with the Best Starter and Sherry Pairing award.

In 2024, Jiachen joined our restaurant as Head Sommelier, curating an exceptional list of wines and beverages, and shares her expertise with our guests to enhance their dining experience.

You can enjoy Jiachen's exquisite wine pairings alongside our 9 course tasting menu by booking a table today.