For married couple Miriam Matasar and Darrin Ylisto, hospitality has always been a part of their relationship. They met years ago while working as managers at a French Quarter restaurant, and although their circumstances have changed over time, their enthusiasm for the industry has remained constant. After several job transitions, a return to social work school, and the disruptions of COVID, when Miriam and Darrin learned that Spirit Wine was up for sale, they jumped at the opportunity. Since 2023, their cheek-ily named Really Really Nice Wines (RRNW) has taken off, evolving beyond a wine store and into an inviting space where guests can grab a small bite to eat and explore new wines.
RRNW has been going strong for a while now; what do you think sets your business apart?
Miriam: We specialize in natural, low intervention wines. Small vineyards that care about their impact on the planet and have a forward-thinking ethos. We constantly update our selection of producers, always tasting and improving. We also strive to be not just a retailer or a bar, but a neighborhood gathering place.
Which idea came first, opening a wine store or a wine bar?
The bar was in the vision, and we would not have done it without the opportunity to open a bar in addition to the shop. We wanted to offer the communal experience of finding something new and special in a space that we would genuinely want to hang out ourselves.
What does the name mean?
It’s something that we found people just say all the time, “Oh that’s a really really nice wine.” It is also a line from an obscure LCD Soundsystem song that we love.
What kind of food do you serve?
Our amazing chef, Luci Winsberg was mentored by Sue Zemanick (of Gautreau’s) and served as Chef de Cuisine at Sukeban. She manages our seasonal rotating menu and staple snack offerings. Popular items include the Anchovy Toast (sourdough with salted butter, anchovy filet, lemon zest and salt), duck fat popcorn and anchovy stuffed olives. We also offer oysters, rotating cheese and charcuterie plates.
What is the Wine Club?
This is a monthly subscription service that allows you to try two or four of our recommendations, based on a theme. For example, our February wine club offered full-bodied Italian white wines from Tuscany, Umbria and Sicily that were cold weather appropriate, not out of place apres-ski, but also account for the fluctuating temperatures. Additionally, Wine Club members have access to our quarterly wine events.
Can you tell us more about the home and gift items you carry at the store as well?
We carry houseware, bar and entertaining-adjacent items; things like new and vintage glassware, cheese boards and gourmet snacks from all over the world. We try to select unique items from small make-rs, pulling from hands-on research and travel inspiration.
What’s up next?
You can come by from 5p.m.-7p.m. every Thursday for free tastings from four different producers. They are always different. Also, always check our website for upcoming events. We try to sneak in (almost monthly) fun, special events, workshops and pop-ups at the store.
Really Really Nice Wines,
3500 Magazine St.,
reallyreallynicewines.com
