The Washington State Wine Awards (formerly known as Washington Wine Restaurant Awards), established in 2002, recognizes industry leaders that exhibit strong support of Washington wines and high professional standards in wine service.

The Washington State Restaurant, Retailer and Tourism Champions of the Year are the most prestigious awards, while the Washington State Wine Grand Award seeks to commend those individuals and organizations that designate menu and wine list space for Washington wines and provide continual promotion, sales and education of Washington wines. Other awards honor special categories such as Sommelier of the Year, Best Wine Event featuring Washington Wine, 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, individuals and organizations on a variety of criteria, including wine list, service and staffing, promotions and overall wine philosophy.

Click here to see the judging criteria used to determine award winners.