Four Spokane-area establishments—Masselow's, Churchill's Steakhouse, Spencer's Steaks & Chops, and The Lincoln Center—have received 2012 Washington Wine Restaurant Awards, sponsored by Seattle magazine.

The awards were announced late last month by the Washington State Wine Commission, which each year recognizes restaurants that exhibit exceptional support of the state's wines and high professional standards in wine service.

Masselow's, located at the Kalispel Tribe of Indians' Northern Quest Resort & Casino, was one of 36 restaurants statewide that received distinction awards for showing dedication and commitment to the state's wine industry.

Churchill's, at 165 S. Post; Spencer's, at 322 N. Spokane Falls Court; and The Lincoln Center, at 1316 N. Lincoln, were among 24 establishments that received recognition certificates for helping to build wine industry support.

Additionally, Anthony's Restaurants, the chain that includes Anthony's at Spokane Falls, at 510 N. Lincoln, was among 20 recipients of grand awards for being "true industry leaders" in support of the state's wine industry.

The Metropolitan Grill, an iconic, 30-year-old Seattle restaurant that employs eight certified sommeliers and offers 650 Washington wines among the 1,600 wines in its inventory, received the Washington Wine Restaurant of the Year award, which included a unique custom-blown glass sculpture.

Budd Gould, of Anthony's Restaurants, won the Walter Clore Honorarium award for demonstrating dedication to the advancement of the state's wine industry, and Nelson Daquip, of Seattle's Canlis Restaurant, was named sommelier of the year.

—Kim Crompton