Master Sommelier
James Bube
- Discipline
- Master Sommelier
Portrait of James Bube
i. Biography
Coming Up
West Coast floor work and cellar-side labor shaped James Bube’s early scope. At Mercantile Dining and Provision in Denver, he worked as General Manager; at Argyle winery in Willamette Valley, Oregon, he worked harvest. Those two posts set the frame for a career that sits between dining-room operations and vineyard work.
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Where They Are Now
Wine direction at Hogsalt in Chicago now defines James Bube’s day-to-day work. He also serves as board member and treasurer of Second City Sommeliers Tasting group in Chicago, which keeps him active in the city’s tasting community. Mentorship is part of that practice, extending the role beyond a single room or list.
Honors
James's honors include Guildsomm Online Competition winner (2017) and National TopSomm second place finisher (2016).
FAQ
Asked of James
What is James Bube's current role?
As of 2026, James Bube is Wine Director.
Where did James Bube work before?
James Bube's earlier career included Mercantile Dining and Provision and Argyle winery.
What recognition has James Bube received?
Guildsomm Online Competition winner (2017).
Explore
The Sunday email
Read about sommeliers like James Bube in the Sunday email.
Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.
Recent stories
Free. One email a week, and you can unsubscribe from any issue.