The phrase "honourable exception" is used to describe a person or thing that stands out or differs from others because of their admirable qualities, behaviors, or actions. Full definition
With honourable exceptions the BBC does not give an accurate and authentic portrayal of the evangelical church in the UK. (premierchristianity.com)
There has been bafflement at why Lib Dem parliamentarians, members of a party with civil liberties at its core, are allowing this bill to go though, with only a few honourable exceptions voting the right way. (politics.co.uk)
There are some very honourable exceptions to this, but as a general rule, law schools have kept a low profile in, or even absented themselves from, the important discussions and debates taking place right now about the future of law. (slaw.ca)