Pines Modern Steakhouse Joins Whisky Advocate List

The new year begins with another milestone for Yaamava’ Resort & Casino and the ever‑growing prestige of Collection ’86. Whisky Advocate has officially added The Pines Modern Steakhouse to its curated directory of top whisky destinations on WhiskyBars.com, placing it among an elite group of only 15 bars in California and 151 across the United States recognized for excellence in whisky selection, service, and guest experience.

This honor highlights the depth and rarity of the Collection ’86 whisky program—an extraordinary portfolio that includes some of the world’s most coveted bottles, vintage releases, and limited‑edition expressions.

Explore the listing: Pines Modern Steakhouse on WhiskyBars.com

A National Spotlight on Collection ’86

Whisky Advocate’s recognition underscores what guests of The Pines have long known: the whisky program at Yaamava’ is unlike anything else in the region. The Collection ’86 vault features:

• Rare Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki and Hibiki prestige releases
• Vintage Scotch and single‑barrel selections
• Limited‑edition American whiskeys and ultra‑allocated bourbons
• Curated flights designed to showcase craftsmanship and terroir

This depth and intentionality are why Whisky Advocate describes The Pines as home to “one of the world’s most impressive whiskey collections.”

Featured in December Issues of Wine Spectator & Whisky Advocate

To close out 2025, Collection ’86 appeared in full‑page print ads in the December editions of both Wine Spectator and Whisky Advocate. These ads showcased the exclusivity, rarity, and storytelling behind the Collection ’86 whisky portfolio—positioning it alongside the world’s most respected spirits programs.

The creative highlighted:

• The vault‑like nature of the collection
• The ultra‑rare Yamazaki and Suntory expressions
• The idea that “most wine collections need a cellar—ours needs surveillance”
• The craftsmanship and heritage behind every bottle

These placements amplified national awareness of Collection ’86 and reinforced Yaamava’s reputation as a destination for collectors, connoisseurs, and enthusiasts.

A Continuum of Award‑Winning Excellence

The Whisky Advocate recognition builds on a remarkable streak of beverage awards earned by Yaamava’ and The Pines Modern Steakhouse in recent years.

Wine Spectator Awards

• Best of Award of Excellence (2022, 2023, 2024, 2025) Recognizing outstanding breadth, depth, and cellar management.

World of Fine Wine Awards

• World’s Best Wine List – The Pines Modern Steakhouse
• Three-Star Accreditation (2023 & 2025)
• 2024 Regional Best Spirits List

These accolades reflect the same commitment to excellence that drives the whisky program—precision, curation, and a deep respect for the craft.

Where Whisky Meets Experience

Guests can explore Collection ’86 across Yaamava’s most elevated venues:

Pines Modern Steakhouse

A Forbes‑recognized fine‑dining destination where the whisky list is as meticulously curated as the cuisine.

Y Lounge

A high‑limit, luxury environment offering premium pours and rare finds.

VIP Gaming Areas

Exclusive spaces where guests enjoy access to limited releases and sommelier‑selected treasures.

A Strong Start to 2026

Being named one of the top whisky bars in America is more than an accolade—it’s a reflection of the passion, expertise, and dedication behind Collection ’86 and the teams who bring it to life every day.

As Yaamava’ celebrates its 40th anniversary, this recognition marks the beginning of another year defined by excellence, innovation, and unforgettable guest experiences.