Wine Spectator magazine, which annually reviews more than 15,000 wines worldwide, recently announced its 2021 Restaurant Awards. In this competition, which dates to 1981, worldwide restaurants self-nominate their best vintages, seeking the imprimatur on the contents of their wine cellars.

To qualify for an award, wine lists must present complete, accurate information, including vintages and appellations for all selections. Accuracy is key; even a typo in a producer name can affect a score.

Three Bucks County restaurants earned the publication’s Award of Excellence:

• Nektar, New Hope
• Riverhouse at Odette’s, New Hope
• Spinnerstown Hotel Restaurant & Taproom, Quakertown

To be eligible for this honor, wine lists must offer at least 90 selections, feature a well-chosen assortment of quality producers, and demonstrate a thematic match to the menu in both price and style.

The magazine itself describes the high standard in terms of delivering “…sufficient choice to satisfy discerning wine lovers.”

The Award of Excellence designation is only one of several Wine Spectator annual recognitions restaurants vie for.

Its Grand Award is reserved for top-tier restaurants that “show extraordinary commitment to wine service” and present “a dining bucket list for wine lovers to dream about.”

Grand Award wine cellars must have at least 1,000 wine selections on hand, verifiable through in-person inspection.

All the 2012 restaurants honored for their wine offerings are available at Wine Spector magazine.