The Caves de l’Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, home to the world’s largest hotel wine cellar, has been recognised with Wine Spectator’s 2026 Best of Award of Excellence, reinforcing Monaco’s reputation as one of the world’s leading destinations for fine wine and gastronomy.
Awarded by the influential American publication Wine Spectator, the distinction recognises restaurants and wine programmes that demonstrate exceptional depth, quality and diversity in their wine selections.
For the Caves de l’Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, the award acknowledges a collection that spans more than 300,000 bottles and 11,000 wine references, with particular recognition given to its extensive holdings of Burgundy, Champagne and Bordeaux.
Carved into the rock 12 metres beneath Monaco in 1874 at the initiative of Marie Blanc, the 1,500-square-metre cellar has been at the heart of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer’s culinary identity for more than 150 years. Following an extensive renovation completed in 2025, the historic cellars continue to supply the resort’s 30 restaurants and bars, while also welcoming guests for private tours, exclusive tastings and exceptional dining experiences.
The venue has also expanded its offering through the recently established Cercle des Caves de l’Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, an invitation-only club that gives wine collectors and enthusiasts access to intimate evenings centred on rare bottles and prestigious vintages.
The latest accolade further strengthens Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer’s standing in the international wine world and adds to a growing list of honours from Wine Spectator.
Last year, Le Grill, the Michelin-starred restaurant at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, received the publication’s Best of Award of Excellence for its wine programme. Meanwhile, Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse has held Wine Spectator’s highest distinction, the Grand Award, since 1995, making it the only restaurant within the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer group to receive the publication’s top honour.
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Photo source: Monte-Carlo SBM