Wine bar
Unclaimed profileLardon
Chicago, IL · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
A wine bar that clearly takes drinks seriously. The cocktail list is tight and inventive, with a draft Negroni and a milk-clarified number. Wine spans global regions at fair prices, and the Monday half-off bottle special is a genuine draw. Beer leans heavily on breweries. Zero-proof options get real attention, not an afterthought.
- What should I order?
- Start with the draft Negroni during aperitivo hour, then a glass of the Grindl 'Michi's Farm' or Villa Seca 'Ji Ji Ji'. For a full bottle, the Los Monteros Cava Brut is a safe bet. If you want something stronger, the amari selection is deep.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Wine enthusiasts looking for a well-curated list with global reach, cocktail drinkers who appreciate a well-made Negroni, and anyone who wants a serious non-alcoholic option.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails and zero-proof drinks are $15, draft beers $8, wine by the glass $13-$17, and bottles $45-$70. Spirits pours range from $5 to $15.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The combination of a draft Negroni, an extensive amari and fernet list, and a weekly half-off wine bottle special sets it apart. The zero-proof cocktail menu is unusually thoughtful, mirroring the full cocktail list.
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 compact list of seven cocktails, each $15, with a draft Negroni and a clarified cocktail. The aperitivo hour discount on the draft Negroni is a smart value play.
Menu strengths
- — Draft Negroni is a practical and stylish choice.
- — Clarified cocktail shows technique and ambition.; Aperitivo hour discount makes it accessible.
Standout selections
- — Negroni – Fords Gin, Citadelle Jardin d’Éte Gin, Campari, Method Sweet Vermouth
- — Clarified Cocktail – Sazerac Rye, Toki Black Whiskey, Licor 43, blueberry balsamic shrub
Pricing: All signature cocktails $15; draft Negroni $8 during aperitivo hour.
Wine
A global wine list with sparkling, white, rosé, orange, and red options. Reasonable glass pours and a compelling Monday bottle deal.
Menu strengths
- — International selection from Spain, France, Italy, Portugal, Argentina, Austria, Oregon, and more.
Standout selections
- — Los Monteros Cava Brut – Macabao, NV, Catalonia
- — Grindl ‘Michi's Farm’ – Gruner Veltliner/Riesling, 2023, Weinviertel
- — Villa Seca ‘Ji Ji Ji’ – Chenin Blanc, 2024, Mendoza
Pricing: Glasses $13-$17; bottles $45-$70; half-off on Mondays.
Beer
Eight rotating drafts, all $8, with a strong local focus. Styles range from Italian pilsner to schwarzbier, plus a cider and non-alcoholic options.
Menu strengths
- — Emphasis on -area breweries.; Diverse styles across the draft list.
Standout selections
- — Cold Cuts – Italian Pilsner, Pipeworks Brewing Co.
- — Great Raft – Gose, Brutalist Brewing Cooperative
- — Brunswick Mum – Schwarzbier, Sketchbook Brewing
Pricing: All draft beers $8 for 16 oz; bottles/cans $7-$12.
Nonalcoholic
A dedicated zero-proof cocktail menu with four options, plus non-alcoholic beers and soft drinks. The NA cocktails are crafted with the same care as the full-strength list.
Menu strengths
- — Four zero-proof cocktails, each $15, with creative ingredients.
- — Non-alcoholic beers from Go Brewing at a fair price.
- — Wide range of soft drinks including Italian sodas.
Standout selections
- — N/A Negroni – Ritual Gin, Amaro NA Lucano, The Pathfinder
- — N/A Espresso Martini – Seedlip Spice, Three Spirit Nightcap, The Pathfinder, Coldbrew
Pricing: Zero-proof cocktails $15; NA beers $7; sodas $5-$8.
Spirits
An extensive amari and fernet collection, organized by before and after dinner. Prices are reasonable, with many Italian classics.
Menu strengths
- — Deep amari and fernet selection.; Clear categorization by drinking occasion.
Standout selections
- — Fernet del Frate Angelico – Italy
Pricing: Pours $5-$15 per 1.5 oz.
How it sits with the food
The wine list's international range pairs well with charcuterie and cheese, while the amari selection offers a digestif to close the meal.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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