Pat-on-the-back season is underway with the Washington State Wine Commission handing out dozens of awards Monday to restaurants whose wine lists promote the local industry. The usual suspects dominated the competition: well-established restaurants and chains that recognized the potential of Washington wine early-on (we're talking 30 years ago) and built long-term relationship with wineries,winemakers and vineyard owners. Think Anthony's, Canlis, El Gaucho, Herbfarm, even Tulalip Casino. Big winners: Metropolitan Grill (Restaurant of the Year), Budd Gould of Anthony's (Walter Clore Honorarium), Nelson Daquip of Canlis (sommelier of the year), Wild Ginger (restaurant group of the year). Newcomer was RN74, most innovative wine program.
Reporting by Ronald Holden, Eater Contributor
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