Darrin Ylisto grew up near the Finger Lakes in New York surrounded by wine country but didn’t fall in love with wine until (obnoxiously) studying abroad in Dijon in Burgundy. This experience inspired him to travel extensively in his 20’s, finally settling in New Orleans for law school. Law didn’t take – and bartending post-Katrina allowed him to come back to New Orleans in a service capacity, which kicked-off his career in hospitality. Work in food & beverage allowed Darrin to continue his wine education, eventually earning multiple certifications. Cocktails were all the rage then, but Ylisto’s interest in wine did not abate – especially when he and his then-colleague Miriam discovered their shared attraction to natural wine (and each other!). Darrin and Miriam’s careers segued into the sales sector, granting years of experience in the distinctly less-glamorous – but necessary – wholesale side of the wine business. Eventually, Darrin felt ready to embrace his entrepreneurial spirit, and he and Miriam purchased a wine shop on Magazine Street – with the plan to add a small but cozy bar. Really Really Nice Wines is all about bringing the rush of discovery to wine-lovers in the neighborhood – blink-and-you’ll-miss-them by-the-glass selections, just-in bottles on the shelf daily – the thrill of putting a new favorite into someone’s hands – that’s what Darrin loves best about his job. For him, it’s about the vibes – the feeling of finding something fresh and sharing it with customers and friends is what it’s all about!