On July 3, Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery in Ferndale announced some big news: It has received an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator, generally considered the industry’s leading authority on wine. The restaurant’s wine program is one of 3,800 from all over the world to be recognized.

The prestigious international award honors restaurants whose “wine lists feature a well-chosen assortment of quality producers along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style.”

Leader Block announced its good news at a party. About 50 people gathered to help raise a glass to the restaurant’s achievement, which remained a secret until the grand announcement at 6 p.m. Partygoers celebrated with music by Shanna Manning of the Shannanigans, Roy Knaak on saxophone, and a new singer to the establishment, David Herrarra.

Wine director and director of operations, Amberleigh Brownson, gave a brief speech about the award before everyone shared a toast.


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"The restaurant’s wine program is one of 3,800 from all over the world to be recognized."