Emily Wines

Emily Wines is a Master Sommelier and a recognized leader in the wine industry in the United States. Wines initially pursued a career in art before discovering her passion for wine while working as a sommelier during her graduate studies in San Francisco. She joined the Fifth Floor restaurant as assistant sommelier under Raj Parr and later became Wine Director. During her tenure, the Fifth Floor wine list received a Grand Award from Wine Spectator and was nominated for the Outstanding Wine Service award by the James Beard Foundation. Wines was named "Wine Professional of the Year" by Santé magazine.

Wines is one of two women and 15 professionals to have received the Remi Krug Cup for passing all three sections— theory, service, and blind tasting— of the Master Sommelier Diploma Examination on her first attempt. She spent 15 years with Kimpton, advancing from sommelier and wine director at the Fifth Floor to Senior Director of Beverage for Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, where she managed wine and spirits programs across 65 restaurants nationwide. Wines also served as General Manager of Skipstone Winery before joining Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants, where she is Vice President of Wine & Beverage Experiences.

At Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Wines leads innovation in wine education, guest experiences, and beverage program development for more than 750,000 Wine Club members. She develops immersive education programs, mentors emerging wine professionals, and curates experiences that integrate wine, culture, and community. Wines appeared in the documentary "Somm," which introduced the Master Sommelier examination process to a wider audience. Her approach emphasizes accessibility, aiming to make wine approachable and understandable to all, regardless of background.

Wines served as Chair of the Board for the Court of Master Sommeliers, where she advocated for transparency, inclusion, and reform within the organization. She participated in all levels of examination and education for the Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas, and was a founding member of its Diversity Committee. During her tenure as Chair, Wines worked to rebuild trust and expand access within the sommelier profession, focusing on diversity and inclusion.

Wines is a frequent speaker and media contributor, appearing on camera and on stage to share her expertise in wine education and hospitality. She developed a course for MasterClass designed to build confidence and curiosity among wine enthusiasts. Wines is known for translating the complexities of wine into engaging and inclusive experiences for both industry professionals and newcomers.