Rocky's Bar Opens For Blackhawks (and Bulls) Fans in United Center

Named for late Blackhawks owner W. Rockwell "Rocky" Wirtz, the bar offers classic cocktails, upscale nibbles and a portion of curated history on the Wirtz family.

Rocky's Bar, named for late Blackhawks owner W. Rockwell "Rocky" Wirtz, is now mixing drinks in an upscale setting just off Section 119 of the United Center.

The handsome space is located steps from where Wirtz used to sit on the aisle and mingle with fans. Although there are no stools at the bar itself, Rocky's offers comfortable seating with high-top tables. Its interior design pays homage Rocky Wirtz's outgoing personality, connection to his community and "favorite things" – with carefully selected materials, patterns, furniture and art. 

Wirtz, who died on July 25, 2023 at age 70,  oversaw the team's runs to Stanley Cup wins in 2010, 2013 and 2015. His son Danny, 46, has taken over as the chairman and CEO of the Blackhawks and its parent, the Wirtz Corporation. The privately-held company owns not only the Blackhawks but Breakthru Beverage Group  https://www.breakthrubev.com/, one of the largest liquor wholesalers with operations in 14 states and Canada.

So naturally, Rocky's serves a full menu of classic cocktails, wine and beer. That includes Rocky Wirtz's favorites — Sonoma-Cutrer Chardonnay and very dry KetelOne martinis with bleu cheese stuffed olives.   

According to Danny Wirtz, Rocky was a well-liked leader in the liquor industry. Sonoma-Cutrer, https://www.sonomacutrer.com/ based near Santa Rosa, California, has named a vineyard in his honor. Ketel One is produced by the Nolet Distillery https://www.noletdistillery.com/en/ in Schiedam, Holland, near Rotterdam. Wirtz had close ties with the Nolet Family, which established the business in 1691.

Blackhawks fans can learn a lot about Rocky and his family from the art and memorabilia on the wall at Rocky's. That include portraits of Rocky's "Regal Beagles," one of his Hermes ties, a set of cufflinks and all sorts of photos.

The bar also offers some of Danny Wirtz's favorite brands, including Tanqueray No. Ten gin.

Rocky's opens when the United Center does for fans before games and remains open for a half-hour after the final horn or buzzer. 

We'll have a profile on the Wirtz Family in The Hockey News "Money & Power" special edition, set to hit newsstands about Jan. 1, 2024. Subscribe to THN at thn.com/free and get the special edition for free, along with access to The Hockey News Archive, dating back to 1947.

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