There are hundreds of wine clubs in Napa Valley and they are all relatively similar: Members pay for a few discounted shipments of wine a year and access to special wines and winery events, like pick-up parties (which often cost more money).
But a new wine club, launching in October, is taking a different approach: As members-only clubs surge throughout the Bay Area (e.g., the Battery) and the United States, the Vintners Social Club by K. Laz will offer a private place for wine geeks to gather without the commitment of a quarterly wine shipment.
The Vintners Social Club is, however, more costly than most wine clubs. Memberships for locals and out-of-towners range from $1,500 to $5,000 per year (including a spouse or partner), plus a $1,000 initiation fee. Dues give members access to a wine lounge in Yountville serving revered and hard-to-find wines without the typical markup. Perks include a wine storage locker, concierge services, the ability to book the club for private gatherings and access to a wide range of events…