Cocktail Bar
Unclaimed profileUnion Lodge No.1
Denver, CO · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Union Lodge No.1 is a Pre-Prohibition themed cocktail bar with a seasonally rotating menu of inventive drinks. The whiskey list is extensive, spanning American, Scotch, and world categories with rare pours. Bartenders are credited by name and receive praise for their craft. Non-alcoholic options are creative. A destination for cocktail enthusiasts seeking historical context and serious spirits.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Sazerac or Manhattan for classic precision. For something inventive, the Nutorious blends Buffalo Trace with banana liqueur and sherry. Whiskey fans should explore the list, from Blanton's to Balvenie 25yr.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail purists and whiskey collectors will find much to appreciate. Those who enjoy a speakeasy atmosphere and bartenders who engage with their craft will feel at home. The creative non-alcoholic options also cater to designated drivers or abstainers.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are ideal for the full speakeasy ambiance. Bar seating offers the best interaction with the bartenders. Weeknights may be quieter, allowing for more personalized attention.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails range from $17 to $21, with the seasonal Nutorious at $21. Whiskey pours start around $10 and climb to $298 for premium Scotch. Non-alcoholic cocktails are priced at $18.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The Pre-Prohibition theme is woven through the drink menu and atmosphere. Named bartenders craft both classics and originals with detailed ingredients. The whiskey list is a standout, featuring rare and high-end bottles across categories.
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 Pre-Prohibition focused list with creative seasonal originals and well-executed classics. Bartenders are named and praised for their skill, adding a personal touch. Pricing is fair for the quality.
Menu strengths
- — Classic cocktails like Sazerac and Manhattan are offered at reasonable prices.
- — Bartenders are credited and receive high praise for their craft.
Standout selections
- — Nutorious – Buffalo Trace, banana liqueur, cream sherry, honey peanut chili syrup, vanilla, egg.
- — Sazerac – rye, bitters, sugar, absinthe.
- — Bora Nota – Diplomático rum, Ciociaro, Campari, mango liqueur, berry tincture, hop bitters.
Pricing: Seasonal cocktails $18-$21; classics $17-$19.
Nonalcoholic
Two non-alcoholic cocktails are available, showing creativity with ingredients like matcha, strawberry, and grape shrub. Pricing is on par with the alcoholic drinks.
Menu strengths
- — Creative non-alcoholic options with unique ingredients.; Priced similarly to cocktails, indicating serious effort.
Standout selections
- — Endless Summers – Seedlip Grove 42, matcha, basil, strawberry coconut cream, lime.
- — Grapes of Wrath – Dhos Gin, red grape shrub, verjus, Dhos Aperitif, soda.
Pricing: Endless Summers is $18.
Spirits
An extensive whiskey list spanning American, Scotch, blended, and world categories. Includes rare and high-end selections, organized clearly by type. A strong draw for whiskey enthusiasts.
Menu strengths
- — Extensive selection with rare and premium bottles.; Well-organized by category for easy navigation.
- — Price range accommodates both entry-level and connoisseur pours.
Standout selections
- — Balvenie 25yr – high-end Scotch, priced at $298.
- — Elijah Craig 18yr – American whiskey at $60.
- — Yamazaki 12yr – Japanese whiskey at $69.
Pricing: Whiskey prices range $10-$298; high-end Scotch like Balvenie 25yr at $298.
How it sits with the food
No food menu was evident, but the cocktails and whiskey are suited to bar snacks or a meal before or after. The rich, often sweet cocktails like the Nutorious pair with savory bites; the Sazerac and Manhattan work with charcuterie or aged cheese.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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