Don't be fooled. Silo.5%, the new wine bar in Locust Point, stands out for more than their extensive list of vino.
The scene — a modern lounge with black leather furniture, intimately arranged; the bar — a clean slate-marble accented in green lighting; and the scenery — a panoramic glass exterior opens to a harbor view. It's a perfect venue for a cool, casual cocktail date.
Its drink menu runs seamlessly together with its style — classic with a modern edge. My favorite, Catch U in the Rye, is a spicy, sexy take on an old-school American favorite: the Manhattan.
Unlike the standard Manhattan, this one is sleeker and more grown-up (forget the goopy maraschino cherries). Instead, rye whiskey and sweet vermouth are transformed by a different ingredient: Silo.5%'s house-made habanero simple syrup. They even throw in a few seeds.
While the habanero adds a little fire, it also balances the kick of the rye quite well. The result is warm and smooth. "It's like a sparkling heat. It just ... crackles on your tongue," said bar manager Erik Blackwell.
And if that doesn't jump-start your evening, I'm not sure what will.
How To Make Catch U in the Rye
2 oz. Catoctin Creek rye whiskey
1/2 oz. sweet vermouth
1 oz. house made habanero simple syrup
Dash of bitters
Shake over ice, then strain into a chilled martini glass
Where to Get One
Silo.5% Wine Bar
1200 Steuart St. Unit 2, Locust Point
443.438.4044
silo.5winebar.com
$10