Wine Bar
Unclaimed profileThe Arcane Books and Speakeasy
Cary, NC · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
The Arcane Books and Speakeasy pairs a bookish setting with a serious wine list spanning old-world classics and new-world varietals, from a $6 glass of White Zinfandel to an $18 Mollydooker pour. Handcrafted cocktails like the espresso martini and Mai Tai earn customer praise, and zero-proof versions of signature drinks are available on request.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Mollydooker The Scooter Merlot at $18 a glass, a bold new-world red that shows the range of the list. For something lighter, the Yes Way Rosé in a can is a convenient pour. If cocktails are more your speed, the espresso martini, made with fresh brewed espresso, comes recommended.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Wine drinkers seeking variety will find an extensive list with both familiar and distinctive bottles. Cocktail enthusiasts may appreciate the handcrafted approach and the option for zero-proof versions.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Wine by the glass ranges from $6 to $18, with bottles from $25 to $77.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The wine program stands out for its breadth, covering old-world classics and new-world varietals across red, white, rosé, and sparkling. The ability to order zero-proof versions of signature cocktails adds flexibility, and the speakeasy concept provides a distinctive backdrop.
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
Signature cocktails are handcrafted in-house. Espresso martinis made with fresh brewed espresso and available in various flavors, and a Mai Tai made correctly stands out repeatedly. Zero-proof versions are available on request.
Menu strengths
- — Handcrafted in-house cocktails with the flexibility to be made zero-proof.
- — Customer accounts praise the espresso martini for fresh espresso and flavor variety.
Standout selections
- — Espresso Martini – fresh brewed espresso, available in flavors.
- — Mai Tai – made correctly, per one customer.
Wine
An extensive wine list spans old-world classics and new-world varietals, covering red, white, rosé, and sparkling. Glass and bottle prices are clearly listed, with options from an affordable $6 glass to a premium $18 pour.
Menu strengths
- — Wide range of varietals and price points, from $6 to $18 per glass.
- — Includes both old-world classics and new-world varietals.; Offers multiple formats: glass, bottle, can, draft, and mini split.
Standout selections
- — Mollydooker The Scooter Merlot – $18 glass / $77 bottle.
- — Cooper & Thief Bourbon Barrel Aged Pinot Noir – $17 glass / $57 bottle.
- — Yes Way Rosé – $8 can.; Belposto Prosecco – $9 draft.
Pricing: $6–$18 per glass; $25–$77 per bottle
Nonalcoholic
Zero-proof mocktail versions of the signature cocktails are available upon request, allowing non-drinkers to enjoy the same handcrafted recipes without alcohol.
Menu strengths
- — Signature cocktails can be enjoyed as zero-proof mocktails upon request.
Standout selections
- — Signature cocktails can be enjoyed as zero-proof mocktails upon request.
Community reviews
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