Son of a chef, grandson of a Maitre 'D, John grew up with an insider's appreciation of fine foods and wine. His natural curiosity led him to discover the pleasures and principles of pairing food and beverages for the most satisfying results.

For twenty years, John has worked in fine dining and luxury hotel management. His focus on wine education led him to obtain an Advanced Wine Certificate from the European based Luxury Forte Hotels in Toronto more than a decade ago. He was instructed by renowned Master Sommelier Andrew Laliberté, and has since been granted membership and certification from the International Sommelier Guild.  John has created wine lists for restaurants, hotels and trade centres across Canada. As Catering Director, Banquet Manager and Trainer at the International Centre, National Trade Centre and Hotel Vancouver, he has traveled and tasted extensively through the wine regions of Ontario, British Columbia and California.

Friendly, experienced and organized, John has been creating custom wine classes for over eight years. He has developed and taught hour-long introductory wine classes and advanced wine seminars several months in duration to groups ranging from three to three hundred. He has a keen interest in wine education and enjoys helping consumers make more informed choices.

Approachable and professional, John has been called on to personally serve Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Prime Ministers, Heads of State, Provincial Premiers, entertainers and major sports celebrities.

John Gerum is the resident Sommelier at Newport Liquors.  You can find him here Tuesday and Thursday through Sunday most of the time ready to answer your questions and help you make a wine selection.Visit John's website at:  www.wcwed.com for more information about his comprehensive list of  wine classes and activities.