El Che Steakhouse & Bar

The wine list at El Che knows exactly what it is: a South American-focused steakhouse program built around Argentinean Malbecs and a handful of Spanish reds. The selection of 100-150 bottles leans heavily into the restaurant's theme, with Catena Zapata anchoring the list and Torrontés representing the white wine contingent. It's not trying to be a wine destination — it's trying to pair well with a 48-ounce porterhouse.

Argentina dominates the list as expected, with multiple Malbec producers from Mendoza and a respectable showing of Spanish Riojas and Ribera del Duero for those who want Old World structure with their beef. The list stays in its lane — no Burgundy detours, no natural wine experiments, just solid crowd-pleasers that won't confuse anyone ordering a ribeye. The Catena Zapata wines get prominent placement, and while that's a safe play, it's also a smart one given the quality-to-recognition ratio. What's missing is depth beyond the obvious: minimal Bonarda, no Uruguayan Tannat, and the white wine section is thin enough to skip entirely unless you're committed to Torrontés with your empanadas.

The by-the-glass program offers 12-15 options, which sounds generous until you realize most are pulling double duty as safe pours for business dinners. Expect Malbec in three price tiers, a Torrontés, and a few Spanish reds that won't scare anyone. Rotation appears minimal — this is a set-it-and-forget-it list designed for consistency rather than discovery.