Analog challenges the notion that every wine bar has to be dark with electronic music blaring through the speakers. On the contrary, it's a bright chic space adorned with a hodge podge of dmismatched chairs and tables. A collection of books lines the walls. The space is filled with soft music playing from a record player, with a modest but venerable collection of vinyl ranging from the orchestral works of Jean Sibelius to Snoop Dogg.
If you know Cafeteria & Company or the Broadway Food Hall, Analog is owned and managed by the same group. If the excellence in service within those establishments was to serve as any precedent or standard for what was expected of Analog, I'm pleased to say that Analog did not disappoint.
The server behind the counter was attentive and generally knowledgeable about the wines. You'll see the wines and several tasting notes along the wall. Service is quick and provided with a smile. While I would have appreciated some varietals apart from your typical cabernets and sauv blancs, the wines offered were of great quality and value. Of the ones I tried, the 2015 R. Stuart Pinot Gris Big Fire was especially nice.
All in all, Analog is a great addition to downtown Urbana and serves as another viable community gathering space. As was alluded to in the beginning of this review, I walked out thinking about how nice it was to enjoy a drink while being able to see my friends in bright lighting and not having to yell over loud music. If you're looking for a relaxed and non-intimidating space to enjoy wine, whether in company or solitude, this is the place to be.
PS: Please expand your hours! read more