Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profileL'Annexe
Washington, DC · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
L'Annexe is a craft cocktail bar that leans into house-infused spirits and creative reinterpretations, from a duck-fat old fashioned to turmeric root gin. The cocktail menu spans $18–$21, with a single mocktail, while the wine list offers a compact but diverse selection across France, Italy, Spain, and California. Guests praise the inventive drinks and attentive service.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Earl After Hours, a coriander-infused gin cocktail with earl grey vermouth and Campari. For something richer, the duck-fat old fashioned is a creative twist. The Highway 89, with toasted peach-infused reposado and tajin rim, adds a spicy-sweet kick. Pair with a glass of Sancerre or Chablis.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts seeking inventive infusions and polished technique will find much to like. Wine drinkers will appreciate a focused list with classic regions. Those who prefer non-alcoholic options have one creative mocktail. The intimate, library-like setting appeals to those wanting a refined, cozy bar experience.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are ideal for enjoying the full cocktail menu. The back area is recommended for reservations, while bar seating is often available for walk-ins.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails are priced between $18 and $21, with a mocktail at $12. Wine by the glass ranges from $17 to $22, though some bottles appear on the menu as well.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The bar's signature is its house-infused spirits—coriander gin, toasted peach reposado, coconut rum—used throughout a menu that twists classics into unexpected forms, including a duck-fat old fashioned. A rotating Old Fashioned details item adds a layer of ongoing novelty.
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
Creative cocktail menu with house-infused spirits and inventive twists like duck-fat old fashioned and turmeric root gin. Priced at $18–$21, with positive guest feedback on quality and creativity.
Menu strengths
- — House-infused spirits (coriander gin, toasted peach reposado, coconut rum) add distinctive character.
- — Creative twists on classics, such as duck-fat old fashioned and turmeric root gin.
- — Positive community feedback on cocktail quality and creativity.
Standout selections
- — Earl After Hours: Coriander infused gin, earl grey vermouth, Campari, saline, orange bitters ($20).
- — Highway 89: Toasted peach infused reposado tequila, hot honey, lime, orange liqueur, tajin rim ($20).
- — Casablanca: Espresso infused bourbon, saffron, vanilla, Peychaud’s and Umami bitters ($20).
Pricing: Cocktails priced between $18 and $21.
Wine
Well-rounded wine list spanning France, Italy, Spain, and California, with detailed tasting notes. Includes classic regions like Sancerre, Chablis, and Côtes du Rhône.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse selection across multiple regions and varietals.; Detailed tasting notes provided for each wine.
Standout selections
- — Henri Bourgeois, ‘Pure’, Sancerre, Loire, France 2023 ($85 bottle): expressive with lime, apple, and gunflint.
- — Domaine Saint Clair, Chablis, Bourgogne, France 2019 ($75 bottle): classic Chablis with citrus and green apple.
- — Elias Mora, Tinta de Toro, Spain 2021 ($22 glass): soft texture, black-toned fruit, mineral undertones.
Pricing: Wine prices range from $17 to $22 per glass.
Nonalcoholic
One creative mocktail, Trade Winds, combines Jamaican tea, grapefruit soda, simple syrup, lemon juice, and saline. Offers a thoughtful non-alcoholic option.
Standout selections
- — Trade Winds: Jamaican tea, grapefruit soda, simple syrup, lemon juice, saline ($12).
Pricing: Mocktail priced at $12.
Spirits
Spirits program is defined by house-infused spirits used across the cocktail menu, featuring vodka, gin, tequila, rum, bourbon, mezcal, and rye.
Menu strengths
- — Extensive use of infused spirits demonstrates a focus on craft spirits.
Standout selections
- — House-infused spirits: coriander gin, toasted peach reposado, coconut rum.
How it sits with the food
No food menu is documented, but the savory, bitter-edged cocktails like the Earl After Hours would complement rich, fatty dishes, while the crisp Sancerre and Chablis suit lighter fare. The duck-fat old fashioned suggests a pairing with charcuterie or aged cheese.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
Community reviews
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