Simply put, New York City offers the world’s greatest concentration of wonderful wine. Situated centrally among the world’s wine regions, it is free of the provincial tradition of drinking only the local wine. With an unparalleled variety

of restaurants and fine-wine shops and a ready supply of disposable income, it beckons to winemakers, merchants and drinkers.

It follows that the city may well present the greatest selection of wine lists in the world. Ambitious restaurants use their lists to distinguish themselves, either by offering a wide-ranging diversity, or by plunging deeply into areas that follow the character of the menu.

What makes a wine list great? The best are products of imagination, dedication, energy, resources and a clear point of view. They offer worthy wines in all price ranges. Even the most expensive restaurants must offer a refuge for those who can’t ignore a budget. And even more-expensive bottles need to be values.