Big Napa Energy, Classic Steakhouse Execution
Downtown · Cincinnati · Steakhouse · Visit Website ↗
Reviewed June 5, 2026
Wingman Metrics
The wine list at Ruth's Chris Cincinnati reads exactly like you'd expect — heavy on California cabs, polished presentation, and a clear understanding that most people here are celebrating something and willing to spend. It's not trying to surprise you, and it doesn't.
Three hundred to five hundred bottles sounds impressive until you realize a large chunk of the real estate is devoted to Napa Cabernet and its closest friends. Caymus, Jordan, Silver Oak, Stag's Leap, Opus One — it's a murderer's row of the greatest hits, but you won't find much outside the canon. Bordeaux and Burgundy make appearances to give the list some old-world credibility, and Washington State gets a nod, but adventurous drinkers will feel like they've seen this movie before. If you came here specifically for a $150 bottle of Napa Cab with a sizzling ribeye, congratulations — you're in exactly the right place.
Twenty to thirty options by the glass is genuinely solid for a steakhouse, and the price range of $14–$25 is predictable if not exactly thrilling. The selection skews predictably toward big reds with crowd-pleasing names, which is fine — it's what the room wants. Don't expect much rotation; this list is built to stay put.
Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley — $50–$70 (bottle estimate)
Jordan punches well above its price point in this context — it's the most approachable of the heavy hitters on the list, with enough structure for a prime steak but none of the 'pay for the label' tax that follows Opus One around the room.
Duckhorn Merlot, Napa Valley
Everyone at the table is ordering Cab, which means the Duckhorn Merlot gets overlooked every night. That's a mistake — this is serious, structured Merlot that absolutely holds its own against a ribeye and often costs less than the flashier bottles on the same page.
Opus One, Napa Valley
Yes, it's Opus One. Yes, it's a legendary wine. It's also marked up to a price that makes the value case nearly impossible to defend in a restaurant setting — if you want to drink Opus One, buy it at retail and open it at home. Here, you're paying for the thrill of ordering it out loud.
Far Niente Chardonnay, Napa Valley + USDA Prime Filet Mignon
The filet is the leanest, most delicate cut on the menu, and the Far Niente Chardonnay — rich and full without being a butter bomb — matches its weight without overpowering it. It's the move for the table member who doesn't do red wine but still wants something that feels intentional.
✔️ The Bottom Line
Ruth's Chris Cincinnati is a reliable, well-stocked steakhouse list that delivers exactly what it promises — big California reds, proper storage, and a bottle for every budget above $50. Just don't come expecting discovery; come expecting execution.
One wine list review, one adventure pick, one quick tip, and a personal note. Every week. Under 500 words.