Courtesy Olde Saratoga Wine and Spirits
By Jennifer Farnsworth
The owner of Clark’ Steakhouse and the Schuyler Yacht Basin has teamed up with a friend as the new owners of Olde Saratoga Wine and Spirits in Schuylerville.
Jason Young said when the opportunity came to him to operate a third business, he knew it was something he wanted to be a part of.
Young and his friend, Chip Lawrence, met four years ago and found success flipping houses together. He said the owner of Olde Saratoga Wine and Spirits was looking to sell the business at the same time that a Stewart’s was up for sale, so he and Lawrence decided to purchase and relocate Olde Saratoga. The store moved from Ferry Street to 158 Broad St. in the fall, just in time for the holidays, a move Young said was lucrative for the business.
“Business was amazing over the holidays,” said Young.
Young credits much of the of the success to the location. He also said they have been able to keep Tari Izzo as an active part of the operations, who he described as a valuable resource after owning the business for 13 years.
“She just has so much knowledge, it has been great to bring not only Tari along, but her wonderful staff as well,” said Young.
The store has sticker sales, tastings, and a section of the store dedicated to all local products, which Young said are popular. He said locally made bourbons, scotches and wines are also.
Young said the business offers more personalized service than many warehouse-style wine and liquor stores. They are able to stay competitive with pricing, while still maintaining a focus on customer service.
A military veteran, Young has found success in business by utilizing the skills he acquired as a flight medic. Young opened Clark’s Steakhouse in 2014 and purchased The Schuyler Yacht Basin RV Park in 2017.
Olde Saratoga Wine and Spirits is open Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays.