If you’re looking for a special gift for the wine enthusiast on your list, look no further. Here are some fun and different ideas for whatever holiday you celebrate!
Wine Tasting Uncorked: This is a great gift for someone who wants to learn more about wine, wine-tasting terms, wine and food pairings or for people who would like to host their own tasting party, but don’t know where to start. That covers a lot of territory for only $14.99! These tips, techniques and a list of necessary tools come in what looks like a small recipe box, with tabs for wine basics, grape varietals, tasting techniques and nine tasting lessons.
Washington Wines & Wineries, the Essential Guide, Second Edition: This fascinating and educational book by local expert Paul Gregutt is the perfect gift for anyone even remotely interested in the fine wines of Washington state. The New York Times says: “Critical, in-depth look at the wine culture of Washington. . . Essential.” And the Wine Economist calls it: “A serious analysis of Washington wine that is seriously interesting.” The price is $23.00 on Amazon.
Wine Soiree is an easy-to-use aerator that decants red and white wines. This wine accessory fits snuggly on top of a bottle and prevents drips. In addition, it travels well, is easy to clean, and comes in a classy package. Prices range from $25-$50, and you can buy it on sale for $19.99 at Amazon or order it gift-wrapped from the website.
Custom T-Shirts: For t-shirt-loving wine enthusiasts, you can order a variety of styles, colors and your favorite “wine line,” including “Let it Breathe,” “Big, Bold and Fruity,” and “Our grapes are more stressed than you.” These high-quality t-shirts are available as individual orders ($20 plus $4.95 for shipping and handling) or in bulk ($14 per shirt with a 40-shirt minimum, including a mix of men’s and women’s sizes).
For more gift ideas, have a look at True Fabrications, a Seattle-based company that offers 25 gifts under $25 or beautiful wine boxes ranging from $19.99 to $52.99. The best-selling Six-Bottle Treasure Chest Wine Box, pictured, costs $35.99 and would be perfect for that special someone.
You can also purchase True Fabrications gifts and many others at Seattle’s new wine superstore, Wine World, which is just off I-5 at NE 45th St.
Of course, wine enthusiasts also love bottles of wine for the holidays, and Washington state wineries offer bottles for every palate – from Cabernet and Merlot to Syrah and blends, from Malbec and Tempranillo to Grenache and Lemberger, from Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier to Rousanne and Chardonnay.
(Disclosure: Free samples were sent to me for review for everything but the t-shirts. Please see our sample policy for more information.)
Happy shopping!
Cheers!