Jamie Knee: From Stage Lights to Vineyard Vines—The Journey of The Petite Wine Traveler

If you ask Jamie Knee how she found her way into the world of wine, she won’t start by listing certifications or name-dropping regions. She’ll begin with a story. Because for Jamie, wine isn’t just about what’s in the glass — it’s about the people, the land, and the cultures behind every bottle.

“It all started with storytelling,” she says. “Uncovering the tales of the people, the vine, the land, and the local culture.”

That love of storytelling, coupled with an insatiable curiosity, led Jamie to earn an impressive list of wine credentials — Certified Wine Specialist, WSET, Sommelier, Spanish Wine Scholar, California Wine Specialist, and more. But it was never just about collecting titles. “Wine became the perfect vehicle to connect people, places, and cultures,” she reflects. “A passion turned into purpose, and purpose became a career.”

Today, Jamie is best known as The Petite Wine Traveler, a media personality, judge, writer, and global wine experience curator. Her brand bridges the worlds of wine, travel, and luxury lifestyle — bringing audiences along on a sensory adventure, whether it’s through an article in Montecito Journal, a segment on KEYT Morning News, or a bespoke tasting in Santa Ynez.

Being named one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Wine has only deepened her impact.

“I’m humbled by that recognition,” she says. “It’s helped amplify my voice—not just as a media figure, but as someone passionate about inclusion and equity in wine. It’s opened doors for collaborations, speaking roles, and platforms where I can advocate for diversity in the industry.”

Jamie’s voice, both literal and figurative, is a key part of her story. Before wine, she dreamed of being an actress. She attended a year-long theater conservatory, studied communications at the University of Miami, and was the on-air entertainment reporter for her school’s broadcast. That path led to voiceover work, landing her national commercials for brands like Cadillac and Princess Cruises. “It was a dazzling chapter,” she recalls, “and now, in a way, I’ve gone full circle — sharing wine stories on TV, on stage, and online.”

When she’s not traveling the world or hosting tastings, Jamie can be found exploring the very best of Santa Barbara Wine Country. She lights up when asked about her local favorites — though she admits it’s like picking a favorite child. The Hilt Estate, SAMsARA, Au Bon Climat, Margerum, La Lieff — the list goes on.

“There’s just so much personality and microclimate-driven beauty in each stop,” she says. “I love discovering those tucked-away gems in Santa Ynez or the vibrant tasting rooms downtown.”

And of course, good wine deserves good food. For Jamie, a few go-to dining spots include Santa Barbara’s cozy gem Aperitivo and Montecito’s Ospi, which she describes as a refined yet approachable take on Italian-Californian fare.

Through The Petite Wine Traveler platform, Jamie has cultivated partnerships with wine regions, brands, hotels, and travel bureaus, curating luxury experiences across the globe — from the Central Coast to Spain, Italy, France, Croatia, and beyond. Her offerings include press trips, retreats, personalized tastings, and storytelling-led itineraries designed to immerse travelers in the local terroir and culture.

As for trends she’s excited about? Jamie’s eyes are on California’s microclimates — think Sta. Rita Hills Pinot and Rhône-style blends out of Paso Robles — as well as the rise of Spanish wine, from crisp Cavas to bold Garnachas. But above all, she’s most energized by how storytelling is transforming wine travel into something deeply personal.

“Every sip tells a story,” she says. “And when you bring in luxury, culture, and people — that’s where the magic happens.”

Her advice for those just beginning their wine journey?

“Sip with curiosity, not intimidation. Let your palate guide you. Visit wineries, ask questions, play with pairings. The beauty of wine is that it’s yours to explore.”

And for those who enjoy a good plot twist — yes, there’s more. The woman once destined for Entertainment Tonight has found her stage among the vines. Whether she’s behind a mic, in front of a camera, or raising a glass with fellow travelers, Jamie Knee brings the same joy, warmth, and sense of adventure that led her here in the first place.

Follow Jamie’s journey at @thepetitewinetraveler and discover more at www.thepetitewinetraveler.com.