Restaurant
Unclaimed profileMeritage
Saint Paul, MN · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Meritage's beverage program centers on France, with a 327-selection wine list and a cocktail menu led by Spirits Director JR Zarth. Classics like the Negroni and French 75 sit alongside French apéritifs and digestifs. Wine education is a serious draw, with guided tastings and an Oyster School. A reliable stop for French wine and precise cocktails.
- What should I order?
- Start with a Sophie Schaal Riesling by the glass, a white wine pour at $9 for 3oz or $18 for 6oz. For a cocktail, the Negroni is a menu staple, made with precision and premium spirits. Consider a French 75 if you prefer something sparkling.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Francophiles and wine students will appreciate the French terroir focus and the Wine School's guided tastings. Cocktail purists will find a concise list of classics executed with care. Those seeking non-alcoholic options will find spirit-free offerings.
- What should I expect to spend?
- By-the-glass pours range from $7 to $14 for 3oz and $14 to $28 for 6oz. Educational experiences cost more: Wine School sessions are $95 per person, and Oyster School with wine pairings runs $125 per person.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The program's French identity is unusually deep, from the wine list's terroir focus to the dedicated selection of Cognacs, Armagnacs, and apéritifs. The Wine School and Meritage Wine Society provide structured education, a rarity in restaurant beverage programs.
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 craft cocktail program led by Spirits Director JR Zarth features classics and seasonal innovations. The menu includes Negroni, Manhattan, and French 75, backed by an extensive selection of French apéritifs and digestifs.
Menu strengths
- — A menu of recognizable classics executed with premium spirits provides a solid foundation.
Standout selections
- — Negroni: a classic cocktail made with precision and premium spirits.
- — Manhattan: a classic cocktail made with precision and premium spirits.
- — French 75: a classic cocktail made with precision and premium spirits.
Wine
The wine list explores French terroir with 327 selections, including 18 by-the-glass options. Educational programs like the Wine School and Oyster School deepen the experience. A serious, well-rounded French wine program.
Menu strengths
- — 327 selections provide considerable depth across French regions.
- — By-the-glass pricing is transparent, with 3oz and 6oz pours.
- — Educational offerings like Wine School and Oyster School show a commitment to wine knowledge.
Standout selections
- — Sophie Schaal Riesling: white wine, $9 for 3oz or $18 for 6oz.
- — Drouhin Vaudon Chablis: Chardonnay, $12 for 3oz or $24 for 6oz.
- — Champagne, Carte D’Or Drappier NV: $14 for 3oz or $28 for 6oz.
Pricing: By-the-glass pours range from $7 to $14 for 3oz and $14 to $28 for 6oz.
Spirits
The spirits selection focuses on French apéritifs, Cognacs, Armagnacs, and after-dinner treasures, complementing the wine program. Spirit-free options are also available. A niche but well-defined spirits list.
Menu strengths
- — A dedicated French spirits selection provides after-dinner options.
Standout selections
- — Extensive selection of French apéritifs, Cognacs, Armagnacs, and after-dinner treasures.
How it sits with the food
The wine list is curated to complement seasonal menus, and Oyster School pairs wine with oysters. Classic cocktails like the Manhattan and French 75 can bridge courses.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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