ThE SHOP
We are a local wine shop and bar dedicated to finding the most terroir-driven wines of the world, from far-flung regions of Argentina to the steep hillsides of Germany. We are partial to high-acid wines, believing that it is more important than alcohol levels.
We are accountable for all the wines that we put in front of you. We support wines made by real families, not board members. We care that our producers make wines ethically and put environmental sustainability as a priority. We amplify the voices of all the women, immigrants, people of color, and LGBTQ+ members of this industry.
the team
Ask us questions when you’re ready. We don't know everything there is to know about all of the beverages in the world, but we are excited to share about the ones we do. We make this a priority so we can send you home with the wines you want to drink.
Paula
Chief Wine Drinker
Born and raised in the Philippines, Paula moved to the US in 2008.
CIA Grad, Eleven Madison Park and Fearrington House Restaurant Alum, CMS Advanced Somm, Advanced Level with WSET.
Featured in Washington Post, Punch, Imbibe Magazine, The Local Palate, The Tasting Table, Wine Enthusiast, Wines and Spirits, Wine Spectator, Eater, Wine Magazine, Tatler Asia.
Champagne slinger, Riesling lover. CBD/THC bev enthusiast. Mom to the best Havanese in the world, Taco.
Laura
General Manager
Laura Francis grew up in Cary, NC, and studied both linguistics at UNC Asheville and Hospitality MGMT at AB-Tech. While she is currently the General Manager at R+A, she prides herself in having worked at the Biltmore Estate Winery, the Umstead Hotel & Spa, AN Asian Cuisines, & The Fearrington House Restaurant. She is a certified Sommelier and WSET Level III. Her pets Carolina Reaper & Anubis keep her young, but she loves to sneak away for a calm, sandy vacation to reset. In regards to wine, aromatic varietals are life!
The Latest
N. C. WEEKEND
Opening and Store Concept
MY CAROLINA
Celebrating National Wine Day
WINE SPECTATOR
Change the Way You Buy Wine