Lionel Periner
Lionel Periner, DWWA Judge
(Image credit: Lionel Periner, DWWA Judge)

Lionel Periner is a judge at the Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA) 2026.

Lionel Periner

Lionel’s wine journey began in France in 2003 after completing his Mention Complémentaire Sommelier, following three years of hospitality training as a waiter, chef, and receptionist. He went on to hone his skills in Michelin-starred restaurants before relocating to the UK in 2007.

Over the past two decades, Lionel has built an impressive career with leading hospitality groups and restaurants, including Hotel du Vin, La Trompette, The Lucky Onion Group, and Adam’s Restaurant. Since joining Nickolls & Perks in 2017, he has combined his role there with consulting for a range of restaurants.

Passionate about education and professional development, Lionel is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of wine professionals. He serves as Co-Director of the Northern Sommelier Club and supports Queena Wong’s Curious Vines community through its Central and Northern Blind Tasting Group.

Follow Lionel on Twitter @lionel_somm

See more judges at the 2026 DWWA.

Natalie Earl
Natalie Earl
Regional Editor for France & Sustainability Editor

Natalie is Decanter's France editor, commissioning and writing content on French wines (excluding Bordeaux) across print and digital. She writes Decanter's coverage of Languedoc wines, as well as a monthly magazine column, The Ethical Drinker, which unpicks the thorny topic of sustainability in wine. She joined Decanter in 2016.

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