Img 9900 Scaled 1 — The Depot in Auburn (The Bama Buzz)

More than a dozen Alabama restaurants have been nationally recognized for their wine selection by Wine Spectator, a lifestyle magazine focused on wine culture + ratings.

Since 1981, Wine Spectator, a lifestyle magazine focused on wine culture and ratings, has recognized restaurants that offer high-quality wine lists and interesting selections that appeal to wine lovers.

Alabama’s wine award winners

Dscn0078 Scaled 1 — Acre in Auburn (The Bama Buzz)

This year, Wine Spectator honored more than 4,000 restaurants from 87 countries and all 50 states for their wine programs.

Three Alabama restaurants earned the Best of Award of Excellence which was limited to the top 2,000 on Wine Spectator’s list. The Alabama spots on that list included:

Auburn: Acre
Auburn: 1856 Culinary Residence
Fairhope: The Hope Farm

“Restaurants that earn the Best of Award of Excellence demonstrate a deeper commitment to wine as an integral part of the dining experience. Beyond maintaining expansive wine lists, these programs invest in staff education, wine-focused events and elevated service standards.”
Wine Spectator

14 other spots around the state received the publication’s Award of Excellence in 2026 including:

Montgomery: Ravello Ristorante
Montgomery: Vintage Year
Mountain Brook: Little Betty Steak Bar
Birmingham: Bellini’s Ristorante & Bar
Birmingham: Ocean
Birmingham: Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille
Birmingham: Seasons 52
Auburn: The Depot
Opelika: Botanic
Fairhope: Little Bird
Orange Beach: Villaggio Grille
Huntsville: Domaine South
Huntsville: Char Restaurant
Tuscaloosa: Forte

“Restaurants are navigating a changing wine landscape in 2026, as diners increasingly prioritize quality over quantity. Across this year’s Wine Spectator Restaurant Award winners, we saw wine directors responding with thoughtfully curated programs that emphasize discovery, value and a sense of place.”
Cassia Schifter, Wine Spectator