Bottles and Books: Last Minute Gifts for the Wine Lover

Just this morning, I received a text from a good friend of mine. She was desperately searching for a bottle of wine in the $50 range for a holiday gift to be given tonight and needed my input. (I suggested Chateau Montelena 2013 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon – the lucky recipient will be extremely grateful.) This latest cry for help is one of many I’ve heard. Everyone, it seems, is searching for last minute gifts that are interesting and unique, those that the wine lover doesn’t already have.

To make it simple, I’ve rounded up a few ideas that are affordable, distinctive, and readily available at your local wine shop or book store. Clink the link in bold to the article in which I’ve reviewed the wine or book. Now, finish shopping!!

Bottles

Introduce your friends and family members to a wine region that may be new to them. Paso Robles, located in central California, is one of my favorites. How about Cabernet from Paso Robles? 

Albarino from Spain is a crisp, refreshing white wine that will make you want to host a tapas party!

Red or white wine from Turkey? Why not? A true wine lover will appreciate every sip.

Everyone will  love wine from Costières de Nîmes in the southern Rhone – trust me. Affordable and just the right color for the holidays, you’ll want to purchase a few bottles for yourself.

Sherry is trending right now. Not your grandma’s libation anymore, find a bottle from Lustau or Bodegas Tradicion and surprise that wine lover with how hip you are.

 

 

Books

Dr. Michael C. Higgins, PhD. has written a beautiful book about wine and travel that you’ll want to read before giving it away: Exploring Wine Regions – Argentina.

 

Miles and Jack (and their signature antics) are back in Rex Pickett’s newest novel, Vertical: Passion and Pinot on the Oregon Trail.

Craig and Kathryn Hall entertain, inform, and inspire in their non-fiction book, A Perfect Score – The Art, Soul, and Business of a 21st Century Winery. 

Cheers~ Cindy

 

For more gift ideas? Check out amazon.com!