If you enjoy fine wines, there are plenty of restaurants in Arizona that can satisfy you! Each year Wine Spectator receives submissions and evaluates the wine lists of restaurants all over the country. There are three awards that are given to the restaurants that meet various criteria.
The Award of Excellence is given to a restaurant that has at least 100 choices on their wine list. The establishment offers a "well-chosen selection of quality producers, along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style."
Restaurants earning the Best of Award of Excellence typically have at least 500 selections. The wine menu offers "either vintage depth, with vertical offerings of several top producers from major regions, or excellent breadth spread over several wine growing regions."
In 2003 there were 36 local restaurants that were recognized for their excellent wine lists by Wine Spectator. In 2007, 47 Phoenix area restaurants received recognition for their fine wine offerings. In 2008 there were 59; in 2009, 56 made the list; in 2010 there were 55. This year there are, again, 55, although it is not exactly the same list. Here they are, organized alphabetically within the geographic location.
Best Wine Lists in Mesa, Chandler and Tempe
- Cork
Award of Excellence
Wine Strengths: California
Chandler - D'Vine Bistro
Award of Excellence
Wine Strengths: California
Mesa - Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Award of Excellence
Wine Strengths: California
Chandler - Kai
Award of Excellence
Wine Strengths: California, Bordeaux, Burgundy
Chandler
Best Wine Lists in Glendale, Litchfield Park, Peoria
- Melting Pot
Award of Excellence
Wine Strengths: California
Glendale - Litchfield's**
Award of Excellence
Wine Strengths: International
Litchfield Park - Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Award of Excellence
Wine Strengths: California
Peoria
**New on the list this year.
Page 1 >> Best Restaurant Wine Lists in Tempe, Chandler, Mesa, Glendale, Peoria, Litchfield Park
Page 2 >> Best Restaurant Wine Lists in Scottsdale, Cave Creek and Carefree
Page 3 >> Best Restaurant Wine Lists in Phoenix and Paradise Valley
