2 Montgomery restaurants earn Wine Spectator awards for top-tier wine lists

Two Montgomery restaurants have received an Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator for their service and wine list. 

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.

The two restaurants receiving an Award of Excellence in the River Region for 2026 are:

• Ravello Ristorante
• Vintage Year

Both popular fine dining establishments have been recognized by Wine Spectator over the years. Vintage Year was first recognized by the group in 2019, while Ravello Ristorante first made the Award of Excellence Restaurant list in 2022.

17 Award of Excellence winners across Alabama

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

In Alabama, 15 other restaurants received the Award of Excellence honors. 

Five restaurants from Birmingham: 

• Bellini’s Ristorante & Bar
• Little Betty Steak Bar
• Ocean
• Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille 
• Seasons 52

Four restaurants from Auburn/Opelika:

• The Depot
• Botanic
• Acre
• 1856 Culinary Residence

Three restaurants from Baldwin County:

• The Hope Farm
• Little Bird 
• Villaggio Grille

Two restaurants from Huntsville:

• Domaine South
• Char Restaurant

One restaurant from Tuscaloosa:

• Forte

Did Wine Spectator get the Alabama list right? Did they miss anyone in the River Region? Let us know by tagging us on social media at @montgomeryup.