Wine Bar
Unclaimed profileThe Capital Grille
Hartford, CT
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
Research completed 2026-09-05 · Based on current public sources
Editor: Micah Rousey
Review methodology and evidence standardsThe editorial take
The Capital Grille runs a serious beverage program behind its steakhouse reputation. The cocktail list has range and history, anchored by The Doli, a pineapple-infused vodka martini served since 1991. The wine program is the deeper draw, with sommelier-curated bottles and rare pours by the glass via Coravin. Spirit-free drinkers get two thoughtful Seedlip-based options. Expect polished, pricey classics rather than experimental flair.
- What should I order?
- Start with The Doli, the signature martini that has been on the menu since 1991. For bourbon depth, the Double Oaked & Rye Manhattan layers Woodford Reserve Double Oaked and rye with Carpano Antica. Wine drinkers should scan the Coravin-poured rarities, like the 2021 Massolino Barolo.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Drinkers who want a dependable, well-made classic cocktail in a polished steakhouse setting. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the sommelier-curated list and the chance to try rare bottles by the glass. The spirit-free section is a small but real option for designated drivers.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails run $16 to $19, with the Doli at $17. By-the-glass wines start at $31 and climb to $74. A bottle of Moët & Chandon Impérial runs $115.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The Doli, a vodka martini infused with fresh pineapple, has anchored the cocktail list since 1991. The wine program counters with Coravin-poured rarities, from Massolino Barolo to Kosta Browne Pinot Noir, on a sommelier-curated 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 wide-ranging list of classics and originals, headlined by The Doli, a pineapple-infused vodka martini poured since 1991. Bourbon-heavy options like the Double Oaked & Rye Manhattan and Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar show range, while the Dirty Goose gets a recent customer nod.
Menu strengths
- — Signature martini with a 1991 provenance gives the program a clear identity.
- — Broad stylistic range from a bourbon-forward Manhattan to a coconut-tinged Noble Paloma.
- — Customers specifically praise the Dirty Goose and Double Oaked & Rye Manhattan.
Standout selections
- — The Doli — Wheatley vodka infused with fresh Dole pineapple, served straight up.
- — Double Oaked & Rye Manhattan — Woodford Reserve Double Oaked and rye with Carpano Antica.
- — Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar — Angel's Envy bourbon, blackberries, lemon, thyme.
Pricing: $16 to $19
Wine
An award-winning, sommelier-curated list with a smart Coravin program that puts rare bottles in reach by the glass. Selections span Barolo, Burgundy, Napa Cabernet, and grower-style pours, with a recent customer calling the list deep.
Menu strengths
- — Coravin system allows rare wines by the glass, from Massolino Barolo to Taub Beckstoffer Cabernet.
- — Sommelier-curated list with an award pedigree.; Geographic and stylistic range across Barolo, Burgundy, Napa, and Willamette Valley.
Standout selections
- — Massolino, Serralunga d'Alba, Barolo, Italy, Nebbiolo, 2021 — 31 — Rare wine by the glass.
- — Kosta Browne Pinot Noir 2022/2023 — Willamette Valley rarity.
- — Taub 'Beckstoffer Vineyard Georges III' Cabernet 2023 — Napa heavyweight.
Pricing: By the glass $31 to $74; bottles from $40 to $128
Nonalcoholic
A compact spirit-free section with two Seedlip-based cocktails. Both drinks use the Grove 42 expression, one with salted strawberry honey and elderflower, the other with cucumber and lime. This is a functional alternative, not a full program.
Menu strengths
- — Dedicated spirit-free section shows intentional nonalcoholic coverage.; Both options use Seedlip Grove 42, a consistent base.
Standout selections
- — Strawberry Fizz — Seedlip Grove 42, salted strawberry honey, elderflower, grapefruit.
- — Cucumber Spritz — Seedlip Grove 42, cucumber, lime.
Pricing: $12 to $13
About this review
Research is based on recent public evidence, including official venue materials and beverage menus when available. The review date is the research completion date and does not imply an in-person visit.
Review methodology and evidence standardsCommunity reviews
Anyone with a free Inebrious account can rate the drinks here. Community ratings are kept entirely separate from the Inebrious editorial score above.
No community reviews yet. Be the first to write one.