Criteria
This is the first awards program to acknowledge the crucial importance of a good wine selection—regardless of size—in the modern dining experience all round the world. Judges always have in mind the wise words of Francis Percival about the difference between “a great wine list and a mere list with great wines on it.”
All award-winning wine lists must attain certain standards in relation to the following general criteria (considering the nature and size of the list and any specialism): breadth, depth, height, balance, selection, accuracy, originality, suitability, design, and value.
One-Star Award
A good wine list in relation to the general criteria.
Two-Star Award
A very good wine list in relation to the general criteria, demonstrating superior breadth and/or depth in the selection; a high proportion of leading producers; a good mix of vintages in terms of age, maturity, quality, and style; a good range of wine styles and prices; a good by-the-glass program; a good selection of half-bottles and larger formats; superior organization and presentation.
Three-Star Award
A great wine list in relation to the general criteria, showing exceptional breadth and/or depth in the selection; a very high proportion of leading producers, large and small, old and new, established and emerging; a very good mix of vintages in terms of age, maturity, quality, and style; a wide range of wine styles and prices; an extensive by-the-glass program; an extensive selection of half-bottles and larger formats; outstanding organization and presentation; clear evidence of originality and personality; clear evidence of commitment over the long term, genuine passion, a guiding intelligence, and real vision.