John L. McCune | Owner | Advanced Sommelier CMS
With more than 35 years of experience as a sommelier and fine dining professional, John has built an exceptional career with some of America’s most distinguished restaurants, private clubs, and luxury resorts, including Sea Island Resort, Yellowstone Club, and Vestavia Country Club. In 2001, he played a key leadership role in the opening of The Lodge at Sea Island, guiding an elite wine and service team that helped the property achieve the prestigious Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond ratings for three consecutive years.
John’s passion for wine and hospitality is reflected in his signature food and wine experiences, which have featured many of the world’s most celebrated winemakers, chefs, and culinary personalities. His commitment to excellence and education has earned him recognition throughout the industry as both a respected sommelier and hospitality leader.
In 2007, John successfully passed the rigorous Master Sommelier Theory Examination administered by the Court of Master Sommeliers, followed by the highly challenging Master Sommelier Blind Tasting Examination in 2008. He continues to pursue completion of the esteemed Master Sommelier Diploma.
John’s wine studies and travels have taken him to many of the world’s premier wine regions, though none has inspired him more profoundly than the Côte d'Or — Burgundy’s famed “Golden Slope.”
Today, John continues to share his passion for wine and hospitality at JMac’s in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and through his company, Golden Slope, where he provides wine education, curated experiences, and access to exceptional wines for enthusiasts of every level.