We’re honored to share that The Bama Buzz recently highlighted 17 Alabama restaurants recognized in Wine Spectator’s 2026 Restaurant Awards, including both The Hope Farm and Little Bird in Fairhope. Published on July 1, 2026, the article celebrates restaurants across the state whose wine programs stand out for quality, depth, and thoughtful curation.
According to the feature, The Hope Farm was one of just three Alabama restaurants to earn Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence in 2026, alongside Acre and 1856 Culinary Residence in Auburn. The article notes that this distinction was reserved for the top 2,000 restaurants on Wine Spectator’s list and quotes the publication’s description of winners as restaurants that show a deeper commitment to wine through expansive lists, staff education, wine-focused events, and elevated service standards.
The story also names Little Bird among 14 other Alabama restaurants that received Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence in 2026. In addition to the Fairhope recognition, the article highlights winners across Birmingham, Montgomery, Auburn, Huntsville, Orange Beach, Opelika, and Tuscaloosa, placing both Deep Roots Restaurant Group concepts in strong company statewide.
The article adds that more than 4,000 restaurants across 87 countries and all 50 states were honored this year, and includes Wine Spectator’s observation that top programs in 2026 are responding to changing diner preferences with curated wine lists that emphasize discovery, value, and a sense of place. We’re proud to see both The Hope Farm and Little Bird included in that conversation and grateful for the recognition of the hospitality and intention behind our wine programs.