The famous Fish Out of Water restaurant at WaterColor Inn and Resort just added to its growing list of honors with an “Award of Excellence” from Wine Spectator magazine.

Fewer than 3,000 restaurants worldwide make this prestigious list, and the award is bestowed on restaurants that feature an exceptionally well-chosen selection of wine from quality producers, usually offering at least 90 wine selections on the menu.

“Our wine program boasts more than 475 selections,” said Tony Liartis, Director of Food and Beverage at St. Joe Club & Resort’s gulf-front WaterColor Inn and Resort. “Currently, we have 3,649 bottles in our inventory and our goal is to provide guests with an extensive selection of wines from around the globe at a range of prices.”

Liartis added that more than a third of their wines are priced at $50 and under.

Fish Out of Water has always been a very popular choice for wine-enthusiasts, hosting regular wine tastings, pairing menus and events with some of the nation’s top wine producers and distributors.

“Our bottles are stored correctly, which means horizontally in a temperature and humidity controlled cellar,” said Liartis. “The temperature stays between 55 and 60 degrees, and the humidity range is from 70 to 75 percent. It is a glass-encased room which can be viewed from the private dining room — both with sweeping views of the Gulf.”

Wine Spectator’s entire 2014 Restaurant Awards roster is published in the new August issue.

For more info, visit Fish Out of Water’s website or follow Fish Out of Water on Facebook.