John Unger, MS (d. 2003)
The Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas remembers John Unger, Master Sommelier, educator, and influential member of the Cleveland wine community, who passed away on January 4, 2003.
A native of the Cleveland area, John built his career in restaurants and became one of the region’s leading wine professionals. He earned the Master Sommelier Diploma in 2000 and became Ohio’s first Master Sommelier.
John played an important role in developing the wine program at LockKeepers in Valley View, Ohio, where he established an extensive cellar and helped build a program that continued to receive recognition long after his death. He was also known as a teacher and mentor to other wine professionals in the Cleveland area.
His influence extended beyond the restaurant floor. John helped support wine education in Cleveland and encouraged others pursuing careers and professional credentials in wine. After his death from leukemia, members of the local wine community continued to honor his commitment to education and mentorship.
