About the Awards

The Washington Wine Restaurant of the Year is the most prestigious award, while the Washington Wine Grand Award and the Washington Wine Award of Distinction each seek to commend those restaurants that designate menu and wine list space for Washington wines. Other awards honor special categories such as Sommelier of the Year, Best Wine Event featuring Washington Wine, Best Restaurant Group and the Walter Clore Honorarium which is given to an individual who has demonstrated dedication to the advancement of the Washington wine industry. Judges evaluate restaurants on a variety of criteria, including wine list, service and staffing, promotions and overall wine philosophy.

WINE LIST

  • Creativity and wine philosophy
  • Wine list leads off with or features a separate category for Washington wines

PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES WITH WASHINGTON WINES

  • Wine dinners and/or wine tastings
  • Flight promotions
  • Participation in Taste Washington, Washington Wine Month and other local wine events
  • Frequency of in-house Washington wine promotions

WINE SERVICE AND STAFF TRAINING

  • On-going wine training in place
  • Regular tasting and/or testing program for staff
  • Certified sommelier(s) on staff
  • Supplemental Washington wine education
  • Wine presentation, including type of glassware used

MERCHANDISING

  • Use of menu card, insert, chalk board or other point-of-sale materials promoting Washington wines
  • Washington wine selections are showcased on daily menu
  • Washington wines are paired with menu items