Cincinnati's Oldest Tavern, Wine's Afterthought
Downtown · Cincinnati · American · Visit Website ↗
Reviewed March 26, 2026
Wingman Metrics
Arnold's has been pouring drinks since 1861, and honestly, the wine list feels like it hasn't been updated much since then. You're here for the history, the courtyard, and the Greek spaghetti — the wine program is very much a footnote. Three Chardonnays does not a wine list make.
The list leans hard on Chardonnay — Burnett Ridge, Canyon Road, and Louis Jadot Macon-Villages — which tells you everything you need to know about the ambition level here. Canyon Road is a grocery store brand; finding it on a restaurant list is not a flex. The Jadot Macon-Villages is a legitimate producer and the one bright spot, but a single French white does not constitute a Burgundy program. Reds, sparkling, and anything remotely interesting are either absent or deeply buried in data we couldn't find.
We don't have a confirmed glass pour count, but given that the entire known wine list is three Chardonnays, the by-the-glass situation is almost certainly short and uninspiring. If all three are available by the glass, that's your full universe — no variety, no rotation, no excitement.
Louis Jadot Macon-Villages Chardonnay — N/A
Jadot's Macon-Villages is reliable, food-friendly, and made by a house that actually knows what it's doing. It's the only bottle on this list with a legitimate pedigree, so if you're drinking wine at Arnold's, this is your move — full stop.
Louis Jadot Macon-Villages Chardonnay
At a bar-first spot like Arnold's, most people are ordering beer or a bourbon. The Jadot is hiding in plain sight for anyone who wants something a step above. It's unoaked, clean, and actually good — which makes it a minor miracle on this list.
Canyon Road Chardonnay
Canyon Road retails for under $10 at your local grocery store. Whatever they're charging for it here, it's too much. There is no version of this wine being on a restaurant list that's a good deal for the diner.
Louis Jadot Macon-Villages Chardonnay + Greek Spaghetti
Arnold's Greek spaghetti is a Cincinnati institution — rich, savory, and a little unexpected. The Macon-Villages has enough acidity to cut through the olive oil and brightness to hold up against the bold flavors without being overwhelmed. It's genuinely the right call.
❌ The Bottom Line
Arnold's is a Cincinnati landmark worth visiting for the atmosphere, the food, and the stories soaked into the walls — but don't come here for the wine. Order the Jadot if you must, then switch to a local beer and enjoy the courtyard.
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