Acero
Solid Italian list, Sicily does the heavy lifting
Maplewood · St. Louis · Italian · Visit Website ↗
Reviewed March 29, 2026
Wingman Metrics
First Impression
The wine list at Acero reads like a love letter to Italy — which makes sense given the kitchen's focus — but it's a fairly short letter. What's here is coherent and well-matched to the menu, but don't come expecting to get lost in the pages.
Selection Deep Dive
Sicily is the clear star of the show, with producers like Pietradolce and Curatolo Arini anchoring the list in volcanic, sun-drenched reds. Beyond the island, the Italian coverage thins out quickly — you're not finding deep cuts from Friuli, Campania, or even much from Piedmont. The Prosecco from Villa d'Arfanta covers the bubbles box without much fuss. It's a list built for comfort, not exploration.
By the Glass
We couldn't confirm exact by-the-glass counts or rotation from current data, which is itself a small red flag — a list worth drinking should be easy to find online. What we can say is that the program doesn't appear to have an aggressive glass pour program driving discovery or value.
Curatolo Arini 2019 Nero d'Avola, Sicily — $50
At 150% markup it's not a steal, but Nero d'Avola at this price point still delivers dark fruit and warmth that punches above its restaurant-world weight class. It's the most food-friendly bottle on the list relative to what you're spending.
Pietradolce 2020 Etna Rosso, Sicily
Most tables here will gravitate toward familiar Italian reds, but Etna Rosso from Pietradolce is the real find — volcanic soils, nervy acidity, and a savory edge that most guests at an Italian-American restaurant haven't encountered. It's a gateway wine to one of Italy's most exciting regions.
Villa d'Arfanta Prosecco Extra Dry
Prosecco as an afterthought is still Prosecco. At a $40+ entree price point, the bubbles program deserves more ambition — and at restaurant pricing, you're overpaying for something you could crack open at home for under $15.
Pietradolce 2020 Etna Rosso, Sicily + Tagliolini with Wild Mushrooms
Etna Rosso's earthy minerality and bright acidity mirror the umami depth of wild mushrooms without stomping all over the pasta's delicacy. It's the kind of pairing that makes the dish taste more like itself.
✔️ The Bottom Line
Acero is a reliable neighborhood Italian with a wine list that keeps things tidy and Italian-focused — just don't expect fair pricing or adventurous pours. If you're here, order the Etna Rosso and focus on the food.
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