Robin Riddell Jones | Owner, ISLA Wine
After more than 25 years in the wine and hospitality world, Robin Riddell Jones has developed a deep appreciation for the kinds of places people never want to leave. A Mississippi native, Robin’s love of travel and culture began early, taking her from study-abroad experiences in England and across Europe to a career that would eventually span Seattle, New Orleans, Nashville, and now Gulf Shores. Along the way, she discovered that wine offered a unique intersection of many of her passions: agriculture, craftsmanship, hospitality, food, and the simple joy of bringing people together.
As the founder of ISLA Wines, a thoughtfully curated wine shop and gathering space in Gulf Shores, Alabama, Robin has created more than a place to pick up a good bottle. ISLA reflects her belief that hospitality is less about perfection and more about creating spaces where people feel comfortable, connected, and cared for. Inspired by years of travel and a career spent exploring wine regions and cultures around the world, she built the shop she wished existed on the Alabama coast—a welcoming gathering place rooted in curiosity, conversation, and community. From long lunches to sunset pours, her version of the Gulf Coast is warm, relaxed, and deeply connected to the people who call it home.
You own ISLA Wine–Why did it feel important to create a space like it, specifically in Gulf Shores?
I’ve spent over 25 years in the wine industry, and when we moved to town, there wasn’t a bottle shop in Gulf Shores. I wanted a place where you could not only grab a great bottle of wine but also sit and enjoy quality small plates, along with a wine club and classes offered throughout the year. The community has been starving to learn more about wine, as many folks are great travelers and see so much, but don’t have access to the wines. I also really wanted to create a space for all folks to feel welcome. Wine can be so pretentious, yet it’s just a product of land and heart! Many folks say when they walk inside my place that they feel like they are somewhere else. I hope they find they always have a place here.
What does a really GOOD day in Gulf Shores look like to you, from start to finish?
I would say that if it were a GOOD day in Gulf Shores, it would start with a cortado from Foam Coffee, then over to Glow Yoga for a hot yoga class, or go play some tennis. Then I would ideally go rinse off in the Gulf and read for a while. For lunch, I’d see if I could find some local oysters on the half shell (Navy Cove, Admiral, and Murder Points are my favorites). In the afternoon, if I’m not working, I’d probably head to my shop for a glass of wine and get some girls to play Mahjong. In the evening, my absolute favorite thing to do is head to the beach for sunset with family/ friends and enjoy a 750ml glass of wine.
If someone only spent 24 hours here, but you wanted them to understand the place, where would you send them?
Wake up and go to the beach, of course. Then head to Kitty’s Cafe for lunch–this is a real local spot and very Gulf Shores. Take a boat ride to Pirates Cove and get a Bushwacker! In the afternoon, you could grab a beer at Big Beach Brewery and watch some live music, or if you’re into wine (wink), you can sit in the courtyard underneath our large oak tree at Isla and have a glass. In the evening, you should head over to the Lodge to Perch for a sunset dinner. If you’re still up and want more, then the Sloop is where the locals end up.
What’s something locals protect about this place, or something you hope it never loses?
Our beaches here are unreal. The city goes to great lengths to protect and keep the beaches clean. Our motto is “Small Town, Big Beach,” and it is just that. It’s glorious!
What are your best-kept tips for experiencing the best of the Gulf Coast? Find all the good things to do outside.
It’s hot, but you acclimate while outside, while on the water, whether you’re kayaking on the lagoon or floating on a raft in the Gulf, the breezes keep you cool. And, of course, stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. There is nothing like the sun down here!
Where do you go when the beach is the last place you want to be?
The tennis courts! Our Gulf Shores Tennis Complex courts are so beautiful, and they are free!
Community feels central to everything you build. Why does that matter so much to you?
There is nothing like having a strong community, but you can’t just rely on it to come to you; you have to contribute, be a part of it. I adore sharing a table and breaking bread with people. Creating a space for conversation and laughter is balm to any soul. I think it also starts with carrying wines made by families with real farms and integrity. So, while supporting these smaller producers and bringing them to our little slice down on the Gulf Coast, it feels full circle for me.
