The Perfect Wine and Golf PairingsFrom McLemore Sommelier

If you’re looking for a way to unwind after a round of golf at our stunning Highlands Course, why not treat yourself to a glass of wine at The Creag, our exceptional onsite restaurant offering seasonal exceptionally-crafted cuisine and breathtaking mountains?

Meet Alexander Ahlquist, the Sommelier at The Creag

At The Creag, you’ll be greeted by Alexander Ahlquist, our sommelier with a passion for wine and a mission to make it more than just a beverage. Ahlquist’s philosophy is that wine facilitates memorable encounters, opens minds to new perspectives and inspires people to “live above the clouds.”

Ahlquist has been working as a sommelier at The Creag for about two and a half years after graduating from culinary school and working in restaurants across the southeast. He takes an educational approach to wine, introducing club members, guests and Friends of McLemore to new flavors and varietals that match their preferences and pair well with the food.

Ahlquist’s’s passion for wine started at a young age when his mother nurtured an appreciation for wine labels and the joy wine brings in bringing people together. This early influence set the stage for a lifelong passion.

Ahlquist credits the members, guests and Friends themselves for embracing his vision and passion for elevating the wine program. In turn, he strives to create exceptional wine experiences for them, whether that’s at wine dinners, tastings on the patio or finding the perfect bottle to complement the seasonal Italian-influenced cuisine.

Through his infectious enthusiasm, wine knowledge and focus on member experience, Ahlquist has succeeded in making wine an integral part of the dining experience at The Creag. He summarizes his mission as using wine to inspire members to “live above the clouds” and craft wine encounters they’ll find memorable and adventurous.

Enjoy The Creag Dining at McLemore

The Creag takes dining to a whole new level, creating an atmosphere of unmatched excitement – a true destination. Located atop Lookout Mountain, The Creag offers panoramic views of the mountains and valleys below. You can enjoy the scenery from the indoor dining room or the outdoor patio, both of which feature cozy fireplaces and rustic decor.

The Creag’s menu features seasonal Italian-influenced dishes made with fresh and local ingredients. You can savor classics like  pasta and risotto, or try something more adventurous like lamb chops, scallops or duck breast. The Creag also offers vegetarian and gluten-free options to suit specific dietary needs.

The Creag is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day except Tuesday. You can also order takeout or delivery if you prefer to dine in your room or cottage.

The Creag is not only a place to eat - it’s also a place to celebrate. The Creag hosts regular events like wine dinners, live music and more.

Whether looking for a casual bite or a fine dining experience, The Creag has something for you. You’ll love this mountaintop restaurant's food, service and ambiance.

Discover The Best Wines to Pair After Golf

No matter what wine you choose, you can be sure that Ahlquist will make your experience at The Creag unforgettable. He’ll guide you on a flavor journey that excites your palate and brings you closer to your fellow golfers. As he says, his goal is to use wine to inspire members to “live above the clouds” and craft wine encounters they’ll find memorable and adventurous.

But if you need some suggestions on what wines to pair after golf, here are some of his recommendations.

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, Ahlquist suggests the Elena Walch Beyond the Clouds Chardonnay. This is a white wine from Italy with a complex and elegant bouquet of tropical fruits, vanilla and honey. This wine is perfect for enjoying the scenic views of The Creag and reflecting on the round. It is a wine that can refresh you and stimulate your senses after a rewarding game of golf. It also pairs well with light dishes like salads, seafood or cheese, complementing your palate and enhancing your mood.

If you’re looking for a classic and reliable red wine, Ahlquist recommends the Penfolds Max’s Shiraz, a tribute to the legendary winemaker Max Schubert who created the iconic Penfolds Grange. This classic and reliable red wine has a rich, full-bodied flavor of dark fruits, chocolate and spices. It is a wine that can warm and relax you after a challenging game of golf. It also goes well with hearty dishes like steak or pasta that can satisfy your hunger and replenish your energy.

With Ahlquist’s help, you’ll be sure to have the best post-golf Georgia wine experience.

McLemore Golf Club is Your Destination For Fun, Excitement & Culinary Art

Suppose you’re looking for a getaway that combines golf and nature. In that case, you might consider staying and playing at McLemore, a mountaintop golf resort and community in Georgia. McLemore offers a variety of accommodation options, golf packages and amenities that will make your stay unforgettable.

McLemore has two types of accommodations to suit your needs and budget: the Cottages and the Villas. The Cottages are one-bedroom units with a king bed, a full bathroom, a kitchenette, a living area and a private porch. They are ideal for couples or solo travelers who want a comfortable and convenient stay. The Villas are two-bedroom units with a king bed in each bedroom, two full bathrooms, a full kitchen, a dining area, a living area and a private balcony. They are perfect for families or groups of friends who want more space and amenities.

By staying at McLemore, you’ll have access to many of our legendary amenities and activities the resort offers, including golf on the Highlands Course, dining at The Creag and more. You can also enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, tennis and pickleball to keep you on your feet and active.

McLemore is more than just a golf club and wine resort in Georgia – it’s a flourishing community that welcomes you with open arms, providing you with unparalleled experiences. You’ll feel at home among the friendly staff and members who share your passion for golf and wine. You’ll also fall in love with the natural beauty and tranquility of the place.

So, next time you’re looking for a Georgia golf getaway that combines golf and wine, look no further than McLemore. You’ll have an unforgettable experience that will make you want to come back again and again.