Emily Wines’ illustrious career in the world of wine began its ascent at the acclaimed Fifth Floor Restaurant in San Francisco. Joining the team in 2000, she quickly made her mark, contributing to the restaurant’s achievement of the prestigious Wine Spectator Grand Award. Starting as an assistant sommelier, her dedication and expertise propelled her to the role of wine director in 2003.
She passed the Advanced Sommelier Exam in 2005, and in 2008, Emily achieved a significant milestone by passing the Master Sommelier exam on her first attempt. This triumph marked a turning point in her career, leading her to Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants, where she assumed the role of Senior Director of Beverage and Bars. Here, she guided the wine programs of 65 unique restaurants and developed the bar brand and culture for the company.
Today, Emily holds the position of Vice President of Wine Experience for Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant, where her multifaceted role encompasses not only wine education and mentorship but also spearheading innovation and wine concepts for the company, leveraging her experience to introduce unique and exciting offerings to the Cooper’s Hawk portfolio.
Emily’s commitment to the wine community extends beyond her professional roles. She served on the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) board of directors, first as Exam Committee Chair from 2011 to 2013, and later as Chair and Vice Chair from 2021 to 2023. Her leadership and dedication to advancing wine education have left an indelible mark on the industry, solidifying her status as a luminary in the world of wine.
