Nick Walters, Sommelier

Nick grew up in St. Louis, MO, and first found his love for wine as a college student. His senior year at Miami University (the one in Ohio), he enrolled in a wine tasting course and had his eyes opened to the world of wine. After graduating with a degree in Finance, Nick worked in corporate banking at JP Morgan Chase & Co. for 3 years while wine remained a hobby on nights and weekends. In 2020, Nick made a career change to follow his passion. He left his job in Finance and moved to Napa, CA where he spent time at Cakebread Cellars and Chappellet Winery. In 2021, Nick moved to New York City to join the team at 3-Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park. In addition to his role as Sommelier, he also ran the restaurant's robust beer and cider program. An Advanced Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, Nick is currently preparing for his Master Sommelier exam. In 2024, he was named the Best Young Somm in the Northeast Region by the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, taking 3rd place in the National Final. In 2026, Nick was promoted to Guest Relations Manager at EMP, where he oversees the reservations, front door, and Dreamweaver programs at one of NYC's most legendary hospitality outposts.