Wine With A Twist: Local Family Opens Liquor Store In Babylon

BABYLON, NY —There's a new wine shop on the block in Babylon.

Village Vines celebrated Memorial Day weekend by opening its doors at 35 John Street on Friday with a soft-opening celebration.

The shop's a labor of love for father-daughter duo and Babylon natives, Frank and Francesca Genovas. As a family rooted in the local restaurant industry—Frank's owned and operated Francesco's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria since the '70s—the two share a love of food and wine and want to share it with their community.

"Growing up in the restaurant industry, my dad and I have always had a deep interest in food and wine—the different flavor profiles, how wine can impact food, or how climate can alter a grape’s taste. There is a true science and beauty to it," Francesca told Patch. "We wanted to create a space to share that passion, a place of community where people can attend events to discuss wine and try new ones."

Francesca was born and raised in Babylon, "only a bike ride away from the shop," she said. After earning a degree at the Fashion Institute of Technology, she decided that living and working in her hometown was for her.

But when it came to opening a wine store, Frank and Francesca wanted to do something different and put their own spin on a liquor store. For the father-daughter team, that meant creating a space that feels like home and offers more than just wine and spirits.

"We put a lot of attention into creating the space. We thought about what we would love to see in a wine store, a great atmosphere decorated like my own home, the convenience of having greeting cards, incense, books, candles, jewelry and other gift items so we wouldn’t have to make multiple stops," Francesca said.

She added that while they aim to offer "competitive prices," they also made sure they offer something for everyone, like zero-sugar wine, low-alcohol prosecco, organic and natural wine, ready-to-drink cans, and of course, classic wines and liquors.

"The industry has changed, with more focus on health-conscious choices and we wanted to make that available on Long Island because we found it was lacking, such as no-additive tequilas and biodynamic wine," Francesca explained.

For Francesca, the shop—like the family restaurant—is about so much more than business. It's a way to connect with a community they hold so close to their hearts.

In addition to meeting new people, Francesca also looks forward to giving back by hosting events like wine tastings, running their wine club and collaborating with local organizations. For instance, they work with the Babylon Animal Shelter and bring adoptable dogs to visit the shop, which is all-around dog-friendly and offers treats and water for pups.

Now that Village Vines is up and running just a few doors down from Francesco's, the Genovas have their hands full on John Street. But Francesca's excited for a summer spent sharing their new endeavor with their community.

"I love this town and am grateful for all the beautiful people in it," she said.

Village Vines is located at 35 John Street in Babylon.