Fearing’s Restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas earned Wine Spectator’s 2025 Award of Excellence, placing it among the top restaurants worldwide for wine. The award highlights the restaurant’s thoughtfully curated wine program led by sommelier Paul Botamer, designed to complement its bold, Texas-driven cuisine.
The recognition places Fearing’s among 3,811 restaurants around the globe honored this year by Wine Spectator, which launched the Restaurant Awards in 1981 as the only program of its kind focused entirely on wine service. Awards are granted on three tiers, with Fearing’s receiving the Award of Excellence for offering a well-chosen selection of producers and a wine list that harmonizes with the restaurant’s menu in style and price.
A Wine Program with Texas Personality
“We are honored to receive this prestigious recognition from Wine Spectator,” said Botamer in an official statement. “This award is a reflection of our team's passion for curating a world-class wine program that complements the bold flavors and spirit of Fearing's. It’s a proud moment for us and a continued commitment to excellence for our guests.”
Fearing’s is known for blending fine dining with Texas flair. The restaurant, helmed by celebrity chef Dean Fearing and recommended by the MICHELIN Guide, offers a “bold flavors, no borders” menu designed to pair seamlessly with Botamer’s selections.
A Toast from the Experts
“A wine list is a restaurant’s identity in print,” said Wine Spectator Editor and Publisher Marvin R. Shanken in an official statement. “This year’s Restaurant Award winners reflect both deep knowledge and a passion for discovery. We raise a glass to all our winners.”
The full list of winners will be featured in Wine Spectator’s special Restaurant Awards issue, available July 15. Wine lovers can also browse profiles and wine picks at winespectator.com/restaurants or in the publication’s mobile app.
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