Avenues Proper

Avenues Proper leads with its beer program — this is a brewpub first and a wine destination second, and the list doesn't pretend otherwise. What you get is a tight, approachable selection of about 25 labels that covers the basics without embarrassing anyone. It's the kind of list that exists to complement a good burger or a plate of pub food, not to make a statement.

The list leans heavily California with France and Italy filling in the gaps, so don't come in hunting for anything from the Southern Hemisphere or Iberian Peninsula. Recognizable names dominate — Rodney Strong Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, Francis Coppola Merlot, Bonterra Oaked Chardonnay — which tells you the kitchen is thinking about accessibility over adventure. The one genuine bright spot is the Montefalco Rosso, a Sagrantino-blend from Umbria that has absolutely no business being on this list and is better for it. The bubbly section covers Veuve Clicquot, Mumm Brut Prestige, and Jeio Prosecco, which is a reasonable spread for a neighborhood pub.

Six options by the glass isn't a lot, but the Underwood lineup — Pinot Grigio, Rosé, and Pinot Noir — handles the everyday pours competently at $15-$17 a can. The rotation doesn't appear to change much, so what you see is what you get, week after week. If you're looking for something more interesting off the glass list, you're probably out of luck — but the Tangent Sauvignon Blanc is a reasonable step up when you want something with a little more brightness.