Buzz
In recent years, wine culture has taken off, bringing with it a slew of cringeworthy knickknacks (such as shirts with sayings like “it’s wine o’clock” and tumblers decorated with phrases like “mommy’s special grape juice”). If you’ve got a friend who’s a serious wine lover, you might be tempted to buy them some of these kitschy items for the holidays, but we strongly advise against it. Instead, choose practical and cool gifts that still speak to their love of wine. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Good wine, of course (but make it top-notch)
Some wine enthusiasts can be quite particular, and it’s best to avoid gifting them wine altogether, especially if you’re more of a fan of budget-friendly bottles—you don’t want to accidentally offend. Luckily, your friends are probably laid-back enough to enjoy any bottle you pick out for them. To play it safe, you could always ask a sommelier for a recommendation. Sarah Tracey from The Lush Life suggests Casa Ferreirinha Callabriga ($34.99) or Casa Ferreirinha Vinha Grande ($21.99). Callabriga offers “lively floral aromas and a medium-bodied finish,” while Vinha Grande is known for “dark fruit, earthy cocoa notes, and a long, lingering finish.”
Wine Glass Markers
Wine glass markers are perfect for wine lovers who love to host or sample a variety of wines. They let you write names or wine types on the side of each glass, eliminating mix-ups. Plus, they’re totally temporary—the ink wipes off easily. Check out this set of three for $9.60.
Shatterproof Glasses
Do you know someone with wild kids running around? While they might enjoy a glass of wine in the evening to unwind, their delicate wine glasses and other breakables are at risk during the day. Break-resistant glasses make for a perfect, practical gift. Williams-Sonoma offers a variety of these here.
A Bathtub Wine Glass Holder
Wine is wonderful. But wine in a warm bubble bath? That’s next-level relaxation. If you gift your loved one a wine glass holder for their bathtub, they’ll be able to indulge in this luxury regularly—and they’ll definitely thank you for it. Find this one on Etsy, for $13.99.
A Bucket-Shaped Ice Mold
For a fun, unique, and functional gift, think about a bucket-shaped ice mold that will keep champagne (or any wine) chilled and looking stylish. Your friend can customize it every time, adding slices of fruit, flower petals, or other fun decorations. Wine Stuff offers one for $24.99.
Fabric Coasters
On Etsy, you can find plenty of adorable fabric coasters designed to fit around—not just under—the base of a wine glass. Not only do these protect your tables from unsightly rings and catch accidental drips, but they also help guests keep track of whose glass belongs to whom—especially after a few rounds. Check out this set of six for $24.99, or follow the video tutorial above to make your own.
A Wine Wand
Help your favorite wine lover reduce histamines and sulfites from their wine with single-use wine wands from PureWine. These cute little stir sticks promise to give drinkers “no more headaches.” Tell your friend to swirl the wand in their glass to remove the troublesome compounds—and offer to show them how it works by having them pour you a glass too. Find the PureWine options here.
Perfectly paired cheeses
While gadgets and gimmicks are fun, sometimes the best things are the simplest. What better companion for wine than cheese? Check out Sandeman’s collaboration with Jasper Hill Farm, featuring the Port-Washed Harbison mini cheese. Washed in Sandeman Founder’s Reserve Ruby Red Port, this cheese retails for $15 and boasts “powerful aromas of rich red fruit and fire, along with flavors of vanilla, woodsy oak, and a hint of viande fumée,” making it a perfect match for some port.
Cleaning Supplies
Don’t forget to throw in some cleaning supplies—just add them to the gift bag! Any red wine lover will truly appreciate the thoughtful gesture. Here’s a solid starter kit: a Tide pen, a splash of high-proof clear liquor, and a trusty microfiber cloth. Experienced drinkers will totally understand.
