State of K&L: A Turbulent but Resilient 2025, and a Golden Anniversary

It’s easy to look back on a year with a sense of exhaustion once all is said and done, and 2025 certainly qualifies. The year began with devastating fires in Los Angeles, from which recovery has only just begun to take shape. We experienced incredible volatility with the implementation of tariffs and higher costs of doing business. But it’s also important to pause and take stock—and when I do, I’m still a bit in disbelief at what K&L has accomplished this past year. We refocused on building genuine connections with our clients and our products, launching two new tent events, hosting more tastings than ever before, presenting signature winery dinners, and rolling out our on-demand Open Cellar program. In that same spirit of investing in our clients, we delivered container after container of tariffed pre-arrival commitments without charging anything beyond the original purchase price.

This year also marked the launch of our Spirits Auctions, bringing one of the world’s most accessible and dynamic auction platforms to some of the most dedicated enthusiasts anywhere. Our site has become a true “who’s who” of the spirits world—and, just as importantly, an intuitive and effective platform for collectors looking to reshape their holdings on the selling side. And for those seeking unique and special opportunities in craft spirits, our worldwide connections enabled the creation of groundbreaking private labels, delivering incredible value and one-of-a-kind offerings from the K&L Liquors and Faultline labels.

Speaking of private labels, we introduced several new programs, including Discovery Series (Rhône, Bordeaux, Italy), Maison 76 (Champagne), and Anonymous (Domestic). From the outset, our goal has been to build a private-label portfolio rooted in quality and distinction—starting with the wine itself and building from there. The results include selections ranging from classified growths to cult-quality Cabernets, from new releases to wines with decades of age, all offering tremendous value.

Looking ahead to 2026, this will be a pivotal year for K&L as we begin celebrating our 50th anniversary. We have more signature events planned than ever before, with additional tent events, dinners, and banner tastings. Our affiliate partner, Rare Storage, is already rolling out integrated, full-service storage with priority access for K&L clients. We’re also preparing to bring a new location fully online—one that will represent one of the most significant milestones in our storied history.

All of this goes hand in hand with staying true to what Clyde and Todd set in motion decades ago: putting our customers first, delivering uncompromising service, and maintaining a genuine appreciation for the products we sell and the people behind them.

- Ryan Moses, K&L Bordeaux Buyer and Chief Procurement Officer