The Fireside Room at Bonita Bay Club lauded by wine magazine

COURTESY PHOTO The Fireside Room at Bonita Bay Club was named one of the nation's most wine-friendly restaurants by Wine Enthusiast, a monthly magazine. Wine Enthusiast, a monthly magazine read by thousands for its ratings and recommendations, has selected The Fireside Room at Bonita Bay Club as one of the nation's most wine-friendly restaurants. The Fireside Room was honored with an Award of Distinction on Wine Enthusiast's fourth annual list, published in the February issue.

Bonita Bay Club Director of Operations Eric Truglas supervised the expansion of the club's wine list, the hiring of a club sommelier, the development of a wine-training program for club staff, and the hosting of dinners featuring celebrity guest chefs and vintners from around the world since he joined the club in 2003. He also oversees the New Leaf Wine Club, an exclusive, complimentary benefit provided to all residents of Bonita Bay Group communities. The club hosts wine tastings, classes and other events and offers a variety of wines, some unavailable at local retailers, at special prices.

"It is gratifying to have our dedication to wine service and selection, as well as our cuisine, recognized in such a prestigious way," said Truglas. "Our goal is to exceed the expectations of our members, and they've shown an overwhelmingly positive response to our enhanced and expanded wine list."

The complete list of Wine Enthusiast's 2007 award-winning restaurants is available in a searchable database at www.winemag.com. Wine Enthusiast has a national circulation of nearly 72,000 for each of its monthly issues.

Bonita Bay Club has two clubhouses, an 18-court tennis and swim center, a fitness center and 90 holes of championship golf, including three Arthur Hillsdesigned courses within the community and two Tom Fazio courses, which provide a pure golf experience nearby. The Marina Club, which provides direct access to the Gulf via Imperial River and Estero Bay, has a full-service marina with storage for 420 boats, waterfront dining and social, educational and travel activities.