Melissa Shea

Melissa Shea has a diverse work experience in the wine and spirits industry. Melissa most recently worked as a Sales Director at Independence Wine & Spirits in 2023. Prior to that, they served as the New York Sales Manager at Wilson Daniels Wholesale from 2021 to 2022. In 2019 to 2021, Melissa worked as a Luxury Portfolio Consultant at E. & J. Gallo Winery. Melissa also held positions at Treasury Wine Estates, Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits, SUSHISAMBA AMSTERDAM B.V., Tao Group, and The Fireman Hospitality Group, where they gained expertise in various roles such as Luxury Regional Manager, Fine Wine Specialist, Beverage Director, and Assistant General Manager.

Melissa Shea has a Bachelor of Science degree in Theatre/English from Syracuse University. Melissa also attended Syracuse University London where they acquired a Bachelor of Science degree in Theatre/Theater. In terms of additional certifications, Melissa is a Certified Specialist of Spirits (CSS) from the Society of Wine Educators, a Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) also from the Society of Wine Educators, an IWP Italian Wine Professional from the Wine Scholar Guild, and a Certified Sake Professional from the Sake Educational Council. Melissa has also completed the Introductory Sommelier Course from the Court of Master Sommeliers Europe and holds a WSET 2 certification from WSET — Wine & Spirit Education Trust.