Sarasota's Sage Restaurant honored by Wine Spectator magazine

Sage Restaurant has been honored by Wine Spectator magazine for its wine selection and service.

Sage has won the magazine's 2023 Award of Excellence, which recognizes restaurants whose wine lists feature an ample selection of quality producers that matches the menu in both price and style.

Patrons can experience Sage's wine list and summer seasonal menu starting at 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday at 1216 First St. in downtown Sarasota.

"This is our third consecutive year of winning this award and we're honored," said Christopher Covelli, executive chef and co-owner of Sage, in a statement. "Making sure our wine list matches our menu is no small feat, especially considering we offer a new seasonal menu every three months." 

Sage's menu is inspired by ingredients and cooking styles from around the globe. Covelli's culinary career spans seven countries.

Launched in 1981, Wine Spectator's Restaurant Awards are assigned on three levels: the Award of Excellence, the Best of Award of Excellence and the Grand Award, with 2,001, 1,411 and 93 winners this year in each respective category.

"In a time of technological innovation, restaurants offer the human experience diners are hungry for — listening to their customers and offering personalized experience," said Marvin R. Shanken, editor and publisher of Wine Spectator.