At DEPARTURES we’re always looking for new wines to fall in love with. That’s why we were thrilled to discover K. Laz Wine Collection, a new boutique wine shop and tasting room in Yountville, California, run by the former wine director of Dean & Deluca, Kerrin Laz. After 10 years as a buyer for the influential brand, Laz’s insider knowledge of and relationships within the wine world allow her to grant clients access to hard-to-find, cult-status bottles. While we can’t wait to taste our way through her wine club—which comes in tiers of value called “The Taster” ($300 per shipment of six bottles that average $55/bottle), “The Artisan” ($500 per shipment of six bottles at $85/bottle) and “The Cult” ($1,000 per shipment of six bottles that average $170/bottle)—Laz’s V-Day offerings are particularly spot-on. Searching for something bubbly to pair with something sweet? The Valentine’s Day gift set ($95) includes salty-sweet chocolate bars from San Francisco craft confectioner Lolli & Pops, plus a bottle of the fabulous grower Champagne Vilmar Grand Cellier Brut NV. Luscious and complex with herbescent aromas and almond notes, this rich wine will fast become a favorite—especially at this price point. If you’ll be in Yountville this weekend (or want to plan a last-minute, wine-based getaway), book the special Valentine’s Day version of K. Laz’s cult tasting package ($425 for two people) to have Laz walk you through six of her favorite bottles alongside local cheeses from producers like Cypress Grove and Cowgirl Creamery. The tasting will include the notoriously hard-to-find 2012 Screaming Eagle Second Flight—a rare treat, as a bottle will set you back $635. Visitors will be sent home with a Vilmart gift set of their own to enjoy at home or at the hotel.
K. Laz Wine Collection Valentine’s Day Gift Set, $95 at klazwinecollection.com. For out-of-state delivery by Sunday, February 14, order by Wednesday, February 10.
To book the Valentine’s Day Cult Tasting Package, mention DEPARTURES in the tasting request page at klazwinecollection.com, or contact the shop for more information; 707-415-5040; wine@klazwine.com.
K. Laz Wine Collection is located at 6484 Washington St., Ste. C; 707-415-5040; klazwinecollection.com.
