Walnuts and Wet Sand: Descriptive Wine Menus

"I’m always on the lookout for new wine, but in search of a wine bar that offers lengthy, well-written descriptions of the wines," says Pei.

The list at Bar Agricole is well-organized and informative, says SteveG, who also bemoans the lack of descriptors specific to natural wines on the menu.

A few agree that Heart's list is high on charm but low on usefulness, though vulber finds it poignant. (Of a 2008 Germano Herzu Riesling: "Italy's revenge for all those German tourists").

Memories of the too-soon-departed Locanda da Eva's list set hearts aflutter; luckily, the Internet (specifically: this page [link leads to a pdf]) never forgets, and we can admire the turns of phrase after the end of the brick-and-mortar operation.

If you haven't already seen it, this Slate analysis of how descriptors correlate to price is worth the read, perhaps over a glass of Minervois. To the point: If it's "good," "refreshing," or pairs well with chicken, it's probably in the bargain bin.

Bar Agricole [SOMA]
355 11th Street, San Francisco
415-355-9400

Heart [Mission District]
1270 Valencia Street, San Francisco
415-285-1200

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