Wine bar
Unclaimed profileLa Belle Epoque Wine Bistro
Media, PA · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
A French-leaning wine bar in La Belle Epoque pairs a substantial wine list with a playful cocktail program. Wines by the glass start at $11, bottles top out at $90, and the list spans Cahors to Champagne. Cocktails like The Ember and Lavender Royale showcase house-infused syrups and bitters. A small beer list and a few non-alcoholic drinks round out the menu. Guests praise the wine recommendations.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Lavender Royale, a gin-based sparkler with lavender and lemon. For wine, try the Malbec from Cahors or the Bourgogne Pinot Noir. If you're avoiding alcohol, the Lavender Bliss is a refreshing option.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Wine enthusiasts looking for a French-focused selection, cocktail drinkers who appreciate house-made ingredients, and brunch crowds seeking a decent Mimosa or Bloody Mary.
- When should I go?
- Evenings for a relaxed wine-focused experience; brunch is also a good time for cocktails and lighter fare.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails $12-$16; wines by the glass $11-$17; bottles $45-$90; beers $6-$9; non-alcoholic drinks $9-$10.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The beverage program stands out for its creative cocktail list featuring house-infused syrups and bitters, alongside a wine list that emphasizes French regions with accessible pricing. The inclusion of a $20 corkage fee encourages bringing your own bottle.
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 list with house-infused syrups and bitters. Signature drinks include French Martini, Lavender Royale, and Midnight Manhattan.
Menu strengths
- — Range of styles from gin-based spritzes to bourbon-forward drinks.
Standout selections
- — Lavender Royale: Empress Butterfly Pea Gin, lemon, lavender, sparkling wine.
- — The Ember: Bourbon, Amaretto, house-infused cinnamon syrup, black walnut bitters.
- — Midnight Manhattan: Rye bourbon, Amaro Averna, Licor 43 wash.
Pricing: Cocktails range from $12 to $16; brunch cocktails at $12.
Wine
Extensive wine list with a French focus, including regional selections from Cahors, Bordeaux, Bourgogne, and Champagne. Also features wines from Spain, Italy, Slovenia, Argentina, and California.
Menu strengths
- — Reasonable bottle pricing with many options under $60.
Standout selections
- — Malbec, Ambroise de l'Her (Cahors) – dark fruit, spice, toasted oak.
- — Pinot Noir, Marcel Giraudon (Bourgogne) – bright raspberry and cherry.
- — Champagne Desautels-Cuiret – citrus, white flowers, brioche.
Pricing: Wines by the glass $11-$17; bottles $45-$90; corkage $20.
Beer
Limited but varied bottled/canned selection including Belgian ales, pilsner, and American lager. All prices are modest.
Menu strengths
- — Includes Belgian styles like La Fin Du Monde and Leffe Blonde.
Standout selections
- — La Fin Du Monde – tripel style golden ale, $9.
- — Sterling Pig Shoat – pilsner, $6.
Pricing: Beers $6-$9.
Nonalcoholic
Offers a few crafted non-alcoholic options, including a lavender spritz and a ginger-based drink, all priced under $11.
Menu strengths
- — Thoughtful non-alcoholic options that mirror cocktail creativity.; Reasonable pricing.
Standout selections
- — Lavender Bliss – lavender syrup, lemon, club soda.
- — Free Spirit – pineapple, lime, ginger beer.
Pricing: Non-alcoholic drinks $9-$10.
Spirits
Spirits are integral to the cocktail program and dessert cordials, featuring bourbon, rye, gin, tequila, and premium liqueurs like Grand Marnier and Courvoisier.
Menu strengths
- — Wide range of spirits used.; Dessert cordials and digestifs extend the program.
Standout selections
- — La Belle Signature Espresso Martini – espresso martini with a twist.
- — Pillow Talk – lavender espresso martini.
- — Nuts & Berries – Frangelico, raspberry liqueur, chocolate bitters.
Pricing: No dedicated spirits pricing available.
How it sits with the food
The French-inspired menu pairs naturally with the wine selection; the Malbec and Côtes du Rhône complement hearty dishes, while the Bourgogne Pinot Noir suits lighter fare. Dessert cordials like Grand Marnier and Courvoisier can accompany sweets.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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