Wine Bar
Unclaimed profileNostrana
Portland, OR · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Nostrana's beverage program is a study in Italian precision and Pacific Northwest craft. The wine list, curated by Austin Bridges, dives deep into natural and low-intervention Italian producers, while Bar Director Jessica Brown's cocktails at the Rooster Bar blend local sensibility with classic structure. A dedicated zero-proof menu and a happy hour that doesn't skimp on quality round out a program that rewards exploration.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Oregroni, a -born twist on the classic using Ransom gin and génépi. For wine, seek out the Champagne Vouette & Sorbée 'Fidèle' or the Erbaluce di Caluso Brut from Bruno Giacometto. Happy hour brings a $10 Negroni Sbagliato and a daily punch, plus $5 draught beers.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the deep Italian list and natural wine focus. Cocktail lovers will find creative, well-executed drinks. The zero-proof menu and happy hour make it accessible for those seeking affordable options or abstaining from alcohol.
- When should I go?
- Happy hour is a prime time, offering discounted cocktails, wine, and beer. Evenings are suited for a full wine exploration, while the Rooster Bar provides a more casual setting for cocktails anytime.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails range from $15 to $18, with happy hour specials at $10. Bottles of wine span $49 to $320, with corkage at $35. Draft beers are $8-$9, and zero-proof drinks are $11-$15.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- Two dedicated directors—Austin Bridges for wine and Jessica Brown for cocktails—elevate the program. The wine list's focus on natural Italian producers is notable, and the Oregroni is a signature that merges Italian inspiration with local ingredients. The extensive zero-proof menu is rare and thoughtfully crafted.
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 cocktails with house-made touches, from the Oregroni to the Milaysiano. Happy hour adds value with a Negroni Sbagliato and daily punch.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse menu with original recipes and classic updates.
- — Affordable happy hour options at $10.; Positive guest feedback on cocktail quality.
Standout selections
- — Oregroni - Ransom Classic Gin, Accompani Mari Gold, Ransom 'Autumn' Génépi
- — The Milaysiano - gin, Campari, hibiscus, lime, prosecco
- — Negroni Sbagliato - Campari, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, prosecco
Pricing: Cocktails range from $15 to $18; happy hour cocktails are $10.
Wine
An extensive, curated list focusing on Italian and natural wines, with standout Champagnes and rare alpine bottlings. Dedicated Wine Director Austin Bridges ensures a distinctive program.
Menu strengths
- — Deep Italian and natural wine selection.; Dedicated Wine Director.
- — Happy hour offers $10 'Vino Italiano' by the glass.
Standout selections
- — Champagne Brut Nature Vouette & Sorbée 'Fidèle' - Pinot Noir, Côte des Bar
- — Morgex et de La Salle Cave Mont Blanc 'Glacier' - Prié Blanc, Valle d'Aosta
- — Rosato Brut Nature Nervi-Conterno 'Jefferson' - Nebbiolo, Piemonte
Pricing: Bottles range from $49 to $320; corkage is $35 per 750ml.
Beer
A concise but well-chosen beer list includes Italian classics like Peroni and local craft from pFriem, Hopworks, and Living Häus. Happy hour makes it a bargain.
Menu strengths
- — Includes both Italian and local craft options.; Happy hour draught beers at $5.
Standout selections
- — Peroni 'Nastro Azzurro' - pale lager, Italia
Pricing: Draft beers range from $8 to $9; happy hour draughts are $5.
Nonalcoholic
A sophisticated non-alcoholic program with zero-proof cocktails like Cursive Kisser and Midnight Bloom, plus Italian aperitifs and house sodas. A rarity in wine-focused venues.
Menu strengths
- — Dedicated zero-proof cocktail menu with creative ingredients.; Variety of non-alcoholic aperitifs and sodas.
Standout selections
- — Cursive Kisser - Pathfinder, Sanpellegrino Pompelmo, orange juice, grenadine
- — Midnight Bloom - strawberry, balsamico, basil, black peppercorn, lemon, soda
- — Baladin 'Passione in Rosso' - extra aperitivo
Pricing: Zero-proof cocktails range from $11 to $15; sodas and aperitifs are $6.
Spirits
A comprehensive spirits selection covering all major categories, with premium options like Blanton's and Cazcanes Tequila, alongside well-chosen craft gins and mezcals.
Menu strengths
- — Covers gin, rum, vodka, whiskey, tequila, and mezcal.
Standout selections
- — Cazcanes No. 7 Blanco Tequila - $32
- — Del Maguey 'Vida' Joven Mezcal - $16
Pricing: Spirit pours range from $11 to $90.
How it sits with the food
The Italian-leaning beverage list complements Nostrana's regional Italian cuisine. The wine list's focus on Piedmont and Friuli pairs naturally with dishes like risotto and roasted meats. The cocktails, such as the Oregroni, can stand up to rich flavors, while the zero-proof options offer balance for lighter courses.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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