The Wine List

Few restaurants start off with a minuscule wine budget and develop a broader wine list over time. At Asylum, the early list is modest, yet there are some gems hidden there for the connoisseur.

The best value in white wines is 1989 Bonny Doon Chardonnay at $17. One of the best values in reds is 1981 Chateau De Pez at $28. There are some weak spots on the list: only two Sauvignon Blancs, one Zinfandel and no Gewurztraminers. In time, I expect the list will fill out.

Specially designed cabinets in the foyer house an impressive display of the wines. Although not the best, the glassware is elegant and certainly an improvement over the clunky thimbles used in so many restaurants.