Wine bar
Unclaimed profileJ9 Wine Bar
Chicago, IL · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
J9 Wine Bar pours a globe-trotting wine list with plenty of by-the-glass options, alongside classic cocktails built on premium spirits. The non-alcoholic menu is impressively deep, and a small beer list covers local and international labels. Guests can take wines to go at a 25% discount, making the program as practical as it is polished.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Louis Roederer Brut 'Collection 246' by the glass, then move to the Domaine Desvignes Givry 1er Cru 'Clos Charlé' Pinot Noir. For a cocktail, the Last Word showcases precision. Non-drinkers should try the Phony Negroni or Oddbird sparkling.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Wine enthusiasts seeking a rotating, global selection will find plenty to explore. Cocktail purists will appreciate the classic recipes, and those avoiding alcohol will be pleased by the dedicated non-alcoholic menu. The knowledgeable staff, praised by guests, adds to the appeal.
- When should I go?
- Anytime you want a serious wine list without the formality. The lack of reservations suggests a casual drop-in, perfect for a relaxed evening or a pre-dinner glass. The to-go wine discount makes it a smart stop before a dinner party.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Wines by the glass run $15-$30; bottles from $56-$196. Cocktails are $15-$18, beers $7-$9, and non-alcoholic drinks $8-$18. Spirits pour at $12-$31 per 1.5oz. A mixed round for two will likely land between $50-$80.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The wine program stands out for its breadth and accessibility, with many by-the-glass pours and a 25% discount on bottles to go. The dedicated non-alcoholic menu, including wine alternatives like NON3 and NON7, is a rarity. Classic cocktails and a premium spirits list round out the program.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
A tight list of classic cocktails, each built with premium spirits. The Negroni, Last Word, and Old Fashioned are executed with recognizable ingredients. Seasonal sours add variety, and the J9 Rosé Fizz offers a house twist.
Menu strengths
- — Classic recipes with premium spirits.; Range of styles from stirred to sour.
Standout selections
- — Last Word – Chartreuse, Fords Gin, Maraschino Liqueur, Lime juice ($18)
- — J9 Rosé Fizz – Mirabeau Riviera Dry Rosé Gin, Mirabeau La Folie Sparkling Rosé, St. Germain ($18)
Pricing: Cocktails range from $15 to $18.
Wine
An extensive, global wine list with both by-the-glass and bottle options. Highlights include Burgundy, Oregon Chardonnay, and classified Bordeaux. Wines to go at 25% off list price add value.
Menu strengths
- — All wines available to go at 25% off list price.
Standout selections
- — Louis Roederer, Brut 'Collection 246' NV – Champagne, France ($30/$116)
- — Domaine Desvignes, Givry 1er Cru 'Clos Charlé' – Pinot Noir 2022 ($24 3oz/$40 6oz/$156)
- — Chateau Dauzac, Margaux Grand Cru Classe – Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot 2022 ($196)
Pricing: Glass prices range from $15 to $30; bottle prices range from $56 to $196.
Beer
A compact beer and cider list with local breweries and international classics. The featured sour from Prairie Artisan Ales shows some ambition, but the selection is limited compared to the wine program.
Menu strengths
- — Includes local breweries and international options.; Affordable pricing.
Standout selections
- — Prairie Artisan Ales Tiny Esses Sour Beer – featured ($8)
- — Maplewood 'Son of Juice' – Hazy IPA (16oz) ($9)
Pricing: Beers range from $7 to $9.
Nonalcoholic
A dedicated non-alcoholic menu with a surprising range: sparkling wine alternatives, wine alternatives from NON, zero-proof cocktails like the Phony Negroni, and a non-alcoholic IPA. This goes beyond the typical single mocktail.
Menu strengths
- — Dedicated non-alcoholic menu with a variety of options.
Standout selections
- — Oddbird Sparkling Blanc de Blanc NV – dealcoholized Chardonnay & Colombard ($18/$68)
- — Phony Negroni – non-alcoholic Negroni with juniper, citrus, florals, herbal notes ($14)
Pricing: Non-alcoholic drinks range from $8 to $18 per glass.
Spirits
A well-stocked spirits list covering vodka, rum, gin, whiskey, tequila, and scotch. Premium pours like EH Taylor Small Batch and Lagavulin 16yr are offered at reasonable prices. Served in standard 1.5oz pours.
Menu strengths
- — Wide range of premium spirits including rare scotches.
Standout selections
- — EH Taylor Small Batch Bourbon – 1.5oz ($16)
- — Lagavulin Single Malt 16yr – 1.5oz ($31)
Pricing: Spirits range from $12 to $31 per 1.5oz pour.
How it sits with the food
Charcuterie and cheese are available, providing natural companions to the wine list. The menu's emphasis on global wines suggests pairings that can bridge from sparkling to red, while the classic cocktails could stand alone or alongside the savory snacks.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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