By Scott Smalstig—
MUNCIE, IN—Wine Spectator magazine, widely regarded as one of the preeminent authorities on the world of wine, announced today that Vera Mae’s restaurant of Muncie, has been granted its Award of Excellence.
Vera Mae’s is the only restaurant in East Central Indiana between Indianapolis and Fort Wayne honored by Wine Spectator. It is the first time Vera Mae’s has won the award.
“Our team at Vera’s is thrilled to have been chosen to receive this special distinction,” said Nick Kirkpatrick, General Manager of Vera Mae’s. “When you think about wine, we want you to think Vera’s. Our entire team is committed to being your local “wine country” so that you, your family and your friends can experience the joys of a rotating variety of the best wines from around the world.”
The Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards recognize establishments whose wine lists offer interesting selections, are appropriate to their cuisine and appeal to a wide range of wine lovers.
To qualify for an award, a restaurant’s wine list must present complete, accurate information, including vintages and appellations for all selections. Complete producer names and the overall presentation of the list are also considered. Lists that meet these requirements are evaluated by an expert panel of judges.
These wine lists, which should offer at least 90 selections, feature a well-chosen assortment of quality producers, along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style. Whether compact or extensive, focused or diverse, these lists should deliver sufficient choice to satisfy discerning wine lovers.
Vera Mae’s wine list features 180 different selections and over 1,200 bottles in its on-site cellar storage.
“There has been a real explosion in the number and type of wines in recent years, so Vera’s simply wants to help you find what you like,” said Linc Mitchell, Vera’s advisor and local wine enthusiast. “Wine should be approachable, enjoyable and doesn’t have to be pretentious or expensive.”
Vera Mae’s will make the announcement at a tasting event Tuesday where Kirkpatrick and staff will showcase several of its preferred vendors and host special guest, renowned Napa vineyard owner Michael Honig of Honig Vineyard and Winery.
Going forward, Vera Mae’s has made the commitment to “Wine Wednesdays” during which bottle sales are discounted 20 percent. Kirkpatrick also plans weekly wine features that will be complemented with menu specials.
“Vera’s is growing because we are always looking for ways to bring new experiences to our family of customers,” said Scott Smalstig, Director of Community Growth for Accutech. “We’re looking forward to living up to the Wine Spectator standards and creating memories for our guests.”
Vera Mae’s team offers a variety of curated culinary experiences in addition to the fine dining restaurant, including multiple private party options from the private, downstairs space adjacent to its wine cellar which accommodates up to 30 guests, to its Ballaird Hall which can handle up to 150 guests. Additionally, the new Residence at Vera’s, a 3,000 square foot apartment above the restaurant, can be rented for corporate events, meetings, fundraisers, receptions, private wine dinners, as well as overnight stays.
About Wine Spectator
Wine Spectator is an American lifestyle magazine that focuses on wine, wine culture and wine ratings. Wine Spectator editors review more than 15,000 wines each year in blind tastings. Wines are reviewed on a 100-point scale. Every issue contains 400 to 1,000 wine reviews with detailed tasting notes and drink recommendations. In 1981, the magazine introduced its Restaurant Awards program, which reviews restaurant wine lists annually.
