Support from Bouchon’s owner

I was surprised and disappointed to read “A Big Sip of Vegas Reality” in The Times last Wednesday [Sept. 6]. In the article, my wine director is quoted as saying, “You can’t get the wine you want in Vegas. A lot of what we have [at Bouchon] we bring in from California.” That simply isn’t true.

In a business that is indeed built on relationships, I’ve been proud to do business with Southern Wine & Spirits since my early days in South Florida. Sixty percent of our wine is purchased through the company.

My professional relationship and personal friendship with Larry Ruvo now spans more than a decade and it is because of men like him that Las Vegas has become home to many of the world’s great chefs. Larry’s generosity goes beyond the professional; not only has he raised monies for countless charities but has also been helpful to my colleagues and even my family.

I’m sorry Southern Wine & Spirits was portrayed so negatively.

THOMAS KELLER

Yountville

Thomas Keller is chef-owner of Bouchon, French Laundry and Per Se.