NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Founded on Bastille Day in 2015, the four friends behind Grande Krewe Fine Wine & Spirits say they have spent the past decade offering a love of fine wines, quality spirits, and the vibrant culture of New Orleans. As the shop marks its 10th anniversary this July, they share that they celebrates not only its success as a small independent business, but the strength of community and diversity that defines its foundation.
The “Krewe,” as the owners are affectionately known, includes two couples: Jane Cooper and Bob Heaps, transplants who brought their passion for wine and spirits to New Orleans, and Carla and Roy Arriola, lifelong locals with deep roots in the city’s African American community. Their shared vision of community spirit and entrepreneurship blended by unique personal perspectives have shaped Grande Krewe into a beloved fixture of the Marigny neighborhood—where bubbles meet Bourbons, and cultures combine in true New Orleans fashion.
“Bob and Roy are Bourbon lovers, while Jane and Carla are all about Champagne,” said Grande Krewe manager Dane Mannina. “Together, they’ve created something that reflects the soul of this city: joyful, diverse, and full of flavor.”
“The owners and staff know their wines and are wonderful purveyors of the craft,” said Julien Mutter, owner of 511 Marigny. “They’re loved by our tenants and deeply valued by the neighborhood.”
From July 9–12, Grande Krewe will host a four-night anniversary celebration featuring special events that showcase the shop’s signature style:
- Wednesday: Launch of two new, exclusive bourbon barrel picks in collaboration with local distillery 73 Distilling
- Thursday (“Thirsty Thursday”): A curated tasting of exclusive French wines
- Friday: The Merry Antoinettes, complete with complimentary bubbles and revelry
- Saturday: Live performance by Kevin Gullage and the Blues Groovers—nothing pairs with free French wine like Blues played from the store’s grand piano!
Grande Krewe offers a wide selection of wines and spirits from around the world, including the city’s largest selection of Champagne and an eclectic collection of unique and hard-to-find liquors. Come raise a glass and toast 10 years of Grande Krewe—where every bottle tells a story, and every celebration is a little more spirited.
