By Erin Henderson
Founder and Chief Sommelier at The Wine Sisters
It seems the simplest of gestures, but it elicits such anxiety for the well-intentioned gift giver. What is an appropriate wine to gift? How much money should be spent on a bottle? Should you expect the host to open it or save it for another time? All very good questions and ones we are asked at almost every tasting we host for clients. This is a special time of year and one where you might be inspired to gift something a little extravagant. When thinking about ideas for impressive gifts, keep a few things in mind.
Who is the Recipient?
Is this your BFF or your boss? Something personal for those closest to you makes sense, whereas a decadent gift for a business associate or formal relationship might be awkwardly inappropriate or even seen as sucking up.
Spend Somewhere Between $25-$75
We generally think that somewhere in the $25 – $75 range is a good amount to spend on a gifting bottle. Basically, we consider what we would spend on a meal if we were going out with that person to a restaurant and use that as a guide.
Pick a Known Favourite
We recommend either bringing their favourite bottle (or style), or ours. Skim the recipient’s social media to see what they like. Maybe they’re proud of their Italian heritage or have a zillion pictures of California Cabs. That might suggest a nice Chianti, fruity bubbly, or hearty red will likely hit the mark. Alternatively, we might bring a gift of something we really enjoy. We include a tag with an explanation of why we love it, what it’s about, and maybe a food pairing and recipe to enjoy with the bottle.
Champagne to the Rescue
And lastly, if you really don’t have the time or energy to figure out a decent bottle to give, Champagne is always your best bet. It’s festive, fancy, and is always appreciated.
The Host with the Most – On a Budget (Shhhhhh)
Tis the season to deck the halls, but all that rocking around the Christmas tree can really strain the tinsel if you know what I mean.
And this year, adding more pressure to the Holiday Budget is the ceaseless inflation, supply chain strain, and the ominous loom of a fast-approaching recession.
It’s enough to drive you to drink. At least there’s a silver lining.
But even if Santa’s bowl-full-of-jelly-belly is getting the squeeze from an ever-tightening belt, there are still wonderful ways to celebrate the season without having to sacrifice good taste.
Instead of pricey Champagne (which is in short supply again this year), opt for Crémant – a sparkling wine made in the same method of champagne, but from elsewhere in France. You can get stellar bottles for around $20. (To get ideas, and find out more about the differences between bubblies, look at The Wine Sisters YouTube Channel.)
Big-ticket regions like Bordeaux, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Amarone, or Barolo can command big-ticket prices. But there are hidden gems to be found for a fraction of the price in those places. Consider Côtes du Rhône for Chateauneuf, Valpolicella for Amarone, or basic Nebbiolo instead of village-specific Barolo. If you need more inspo, check out our Hidden Gems class at Wine School; tickets are available on thewinesisters.com
You don’t need to lay out your bar with every (pricey) spirit under the sun. I’ve long championed a signature cocktail for hosting parties. They’re convivial, joyous, and set the tone for the evening ahead. By utilizing some quality liqueurs and spirits in creative cocktails (I’ve included some recipes below), your party budget stretches a long – and tasteful – way.
Looking for a last-minute gift for the wine lover on your list? Our Wine School starts up again in the New Year for both online and in-person classes, downtown Toronto. Or, get a Wine Sisters gift certificate for any denomination!
