Keeping The Cache running smoothly, building on an award-winning wine program and pursuing further levels as a sommelier may sound like a tall order, but Christian McClure is more than up to the challenge.
Born and raised in Wyoming, Christian worked in the oil fields for a several years, then served as a 19K Tanker in the US Army for four years with the 2-70th Armor Regiment at Fort Riley, Kansas and Camp Buehring, Kuwait.
In 2018, he made the move to Fort Collins and began working in the hospitality industry and studying wine, cocktails and beer. “At first it was to boost my sales, but then I had an ‘aha’ moment when I tried Silver Oak Napa Cab for the first time.” Christian said. “I realized there is so much really good wine out there to experience and there’s a lot more to it than making money.”
“I happened to be at an airport wine bar when I tried it and the bartender asked if I liked it,” he continued. “I said, ‘best wine I’ve ever had’ and he gestured to a woman at the bar and said, ‘she owns it.’” Turns out it was Sally Duncan, one of the owners of Silver Oak.”
After this, Christian began his wine studies in earnest. Right before he joined the team at Ginger and Baker, he became a Level One Sommelier through Court of Master Sommeliers. In March of 2023, he passed the demanding exams necessary to become a Certified Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) and Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET).
In 2023, Christian also became Ginger and Baker’s Beverage Director and Head Sommelier, then was named The Cache Manager soon after that. All this before the age of 30… and he’s just getting started.
“I really like that we’re creating an elevated dining experience and The Cache is one of the few restaurants doing that in Northern Colorado,” Christian said. “Maintaining and expanding our award-winning wine list is another unique and fun challenge. I also really enjoy developing The Cache Wine Club, I’m always learning something new, and I enjoy sharing that with guests and turning them on to new wines.”
When not working, Christian enjoys spending time with his wife, Kayla, and dog, Copper. High on the list are dining out, traveling and continuing to learn as much as he can.
Favorite Wine: German Riesling
Favorite Pie: Margarita Pizza