Melissa’s passion for beverage innovation started long before her more than 30-year career in the industry. Growing up, she watched her mother achieve success in the California wine business and it sparked her curiosity for hospitality. After working her way up from dishwashing to behind the bar, she floated from cruise ships to night clubs, ultimately landing in the fine dining arena. Before coming to Monin, she spent 15+ years working for popular fine dining establishments and even developed an entire beverage program from the ground up (to include an extensive Italian wine list, tableside Negroni cart and Amaro-based cocktail list) for one Michelin star chef’s new Italian restaurant. Melissa’s experience and love for unique flavour allows her to deliver exceptional beverage concepts that push the limits of creativity and imagination.