I started in restaurants as a teenager — line cook, dishwasher, whatever needed doing. I went on to study at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, where I took an intensive wine class. I had zero wine knowledge going in. By the end of it, wine was all I wanted to do.
After graduating, I moved to Manhattan and worked my way through some of the city’s most respected resturants: Gramercy Tavern, The Modern, the now-closed Del Posto, and The Musket Room. In August 2020, I joined Jungsik as wine buyer and head sommelier — and it was while working there that I opened Ellen’s, in Ridgewood, in September 2022.
In January 2023, I left Jungsik to build the wine program at Clover Hill from scratch as their sommelier and buyer. Within three months, we earned our first Wine Spectator award. The following year, that grew to two glasses, along with several other awards and recognitions. Clover Hill closed in September 2025, and I’ve continued working as a sommelier in Manhattan alongside running Ellen’s full-time.
I hold a WSET Diploma and am a Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, along with an Associate’s and Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts Management (with a minor in Beverage Management) from the CIA.
Ellen is my middle name — and a name shared by several of the strong women in my family. Opening a shop under that name is a small way of carrying them with me.
While studying for my wine certifications, I was buying constantly for blind tastings and spending far more than I wanted to admit. I wanted to build something that made wine buying approachable instead of intimidating — a place where price and quality are transparent, and where you don’t need to already know something to walk in and find the right bottle.
We support minority- and women-owned producers all year, not just in February or March. About 80% of what we carry represents women, minority, and family-owned organic and biodynamic wineries and distilleries — the other 20% is dedicated specifically to New York State wineries and distilleries. When I say organic and biodynamic, I mean classic, benchmark producers farming responsibly — Ellen’s carries only a small, curated selection of skin-contact and natural “funky” wines, not a shelf full of them.
We carry roughly 500 wines and spirits across a wide range of price points, styles, and origins — Sparkling, White, Red, Rosé, Orange, and Sweet wines; canned wines; New York spirits; and a thoughtful selection of Tequila, Mezcal, Whiskey, Gin, Vodka, Amaro, Fortified wines, and Vermouth. Having spent years at Jungsik, a two-Michelin-starred Korean restaurant, I’ve made a point of also carrying artisanal Japanese and Korean spirits — soju, makgeolli, and sake — categories that deserve more shelf space than they usually get.
Countries represented include France, Italy, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Lebanon, the USA, Chile, Argentina, Portugal, Germany, and Austria.
Our wine portfolio includes classic varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc alongside more adventurous and regional specialties such as Montepulciano, Malbec, and Riesling. We emphasize organic and biodynamic vineyards, which produce grapes grown in balanced ecosystems that enhance the wine's complexity and depth.
Beyond wine, we offer an impressive range of premium spirits including whiskey, bourbon, gin, tequila, vodka, rum, and artisanal liqueurs. Our whiskey selection covers styles from smoky Islay Scotches to smooth Kentuckian bourbons, appealing to novices and aficionados alike.
Recognizing the growing interest in craft and small-batch products, we feature limited-run offerings and collaborations that showcase the skill and creativity of emerging producers. Many of these selections are organic, minority-produced, or champion female winemakers and distillers.
Customer convenience is paramount; our efficient delivery system covers Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and select wider areas, with clear policies and reliable timing. Gift wrapping and special packaging options make holiday or corporate gifting effortless and elegant.
We understand that discovering the right wine or spirit can be daunting, so our website offers detailed tasting notes, farming and production info, and pairing suggestions to guide your choices. Our expert team is also available for personalized recommendations.
At the core of Ellen’s Wines & Spirits is a steadfast dedication to customer satisfaction, ethical sourcing, and community engagement. We believe that buying wine and spirits is not just a transaction but an experience that connects people through shared moments and stories.
Every bottle we list is rigorously vetted for authenticity, quality, and compliance with organic or biodynamic certifications where applicable. Our relationships with producers allow us to provide premium products that meet high standards of taste and integrity.
We are committed to sustainable practices that protect the environment and promote social responsibility. This includes supporting vineyards and distilleries that use regenerative agriculture, reducing waste through minimal and recyclable packaging, and advocating for responsible consumption.
Our team is passionate about building long-term relationships with our customers. From providing detailed product knowledge to facilitating problem resolution promptly, we prioritize clear communication and personalized care.
Ellen's Wines & Spirits champions diversity in the wine and spirits world. We actively feature minority and female producers to celebrate their contributions and broaden your tasting horizons. Our community engagement includes wine tastings, workshops, and collaborations that promote inclusivity and foster education.
We continuously evolve to meet the needs of our customers and the changing market. Innovation in technology, expansion of product ranges, and enhanced user experiences are ongoing priorities. Our vision is to be not only a retailer but a trusted partner in your journey through the rich and vibrant world of fine wines and spirits.
By choosing Ellen’s Wines & Spirits, you join a community dedicated to excellence and authenticity. We invite you to explore our carefully curated selections, experience outstanding service, and celebrate life’s special moments with us.
Discover our carefully curated selection of fine wines and premium spirits
Ellen’s Wines & Spirits delivers a premium, curated selection of organic and artisanal wines and spirits. Enjoy expert advice and reliable delivery for the perfect bottle, every time.
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