Four Inane Questions with Vita’s Place’s Ryan Sciara

Photos by Michael Mackie

Need a really, really good bottle of wine? Ask Ryan Sciara. Need an inexpensive, but tasty bottle of wine? Again, ask Ryan Sciara. In fact, for all your pertinent vino needs, Ryan Sciara has become the Midwest’s go-to wine expert. For over three decades, the grape guru has been doling out knowledgeable (and hospitable) advice on pairing wines. 

Sciara was the founder—and former owner—of Cellar Rat Wine Merchants, and also owns the popular Underdog Wine Co. in town. After much will-he-or-won’t-he speculation, Sciara recently opened Vita’s Place, a cozy wine bar located just around the corner from his wine store in The Crestwood Shops. If the near-constant line out the door from the minute they open is any indication, Sciara has found his tribe—or vice versa.

We caught up with Sciara right before he caught a quick catnap to (wine) press him with our whackadoo questionnaire. We’re kidding, of course—Sciara is awake 24/7/365. 

The Pitch: If you drove a monster truck competitively, what would your truck be named? 

Ryan Sciara: “Lava Platos.” It’s an inside joke at Vita’s. My first job, at age 13, was a dishwasher. I find myself doing the same thing at age 51.

I am not much of a car or truck guy, but I love my Jeep. I also hate when people drive around the city with every possible Jeep accessory on it like they’re heading to a zombie apocalypse. 

What’s your least favorite boozy elixir, or liquor, that’s wildly popular with your patrons? 

Aperol and Campari. They’re both made with artificial coloring and flavoring. There are so many great alternatives in the ‘aperitivo’ category. Some of my favorites are Cappelletti, Bizzarro, and Rondo. They all make much more exciting spritzes, and are made using all-natural ingredients. 

Oh, and California Cabernet Sauvignon.

What’s the most random piece of good advice you’ve ever received?

When I was working on the business plan for Underdog back in 2013, I wasn’t sure if I was really ready to go out on my own and open my own shop on my terms. 

I had gotten a really good job offer from a wine importer. I was ready to take the job when a good friend, and mentor of mine encouraged me to, “Just! Effing! Do! It!” 

I guess it technically wasn’t random advice, but it was what I needed to hear at that moment. 

Hey, what’s your favorite “walks into a bar” joke. (Keep it PG, sailor).

A dog walks into a bar and the bartender asks, “How was your day?” And the dog replies “ruff.”