It’s that time of year and I’ve selected a few of my gift-worthy samples for the Grape Experiences 2023 Gift Guide. Yep, we’re going to “sleigh” the holidays with these quality items of endearment that any wine loving member of your tribe will appreciate (and use!). Grab these now!
Discover the Essentials of Wine (and choose it like a pro!)
I’m offering the course, Discover the Essentials of Wine (and choose it like a pro), on Teachable for a mere $97 (a steal!). By the end of the 5 module course, you and/or the lucky recipient will have learned key points about wine and have the essential tools and knowledge needed to find that delicious wine from your favorite wine shop or wine list. Your budget will be intact, your frustration and anxiety level in choosing a wine to pair with a meal or for a special occasion will be gone, and you’ll have more time to enjoy each sip of your new favorite wine!
The course includes 5 separate modules with a total of 35 lessons. Each module includes audio (and a few with video of yours truly) on each slide and 23 printable and useful resource sheets that supplement the lessons.
The cost is an affordable $97 for a course that overdelivers on content. When you enroll in one course, I’ll send you a coupon code for more purchases at 15% discount – your friends and family will love this. The code is only good until end-of-day December 20 so act now! Click HERE for more details and to enroll.
2019 Flora Springs Holiday Red Blend, Two Turtle Doves, Napa Valley
This striking wine will adorn your holiday table and your palate. The label, with two turtle doves symbolizing peace and beauty, was inspired by Flora Springs General Manager Nat Komes’ memory of his grandmother, Flora, who loved caroling during the holidays. The meticulous detail in etching is astounding and each bottle is painted by hand with capsules and back labels applied one by one.
So how is the wine? A blend of Bordeaux varietals (mainly Cabernet Sauvignon) from two sustainably farmed vineyards, Komes Vineyard in Rutherford and Crossroads Vineyard in Oakville, offered intense aromas of blackberry compote, purple plums, spice and chocolate. On the palate, vanilla, coffee, lavender and herbs offered a brilliant balance of fruit, oak, acidity and tannic structure. The wine can be enjoyed through 2036 and the cost is $95. For more, visit Flora Springs’ website HERE.
Gatherings: Casual-Fancy Meals to Share – Cookbook from America’s Test Kitchen
If you’re like me, reading a good cookbook is like reading an inspiring novel. This latest cookbook from those in the departments of America’s Test Kitchen share personal recipes from their own kitchens as well as favorite entertaining tips and tricks. I found over 140 recipes from casual to elegant, from easy to complex and everything in between!
How about a grilled-smoked pork but in a nacho spread or transforming a dumpling dinner into a make-your-own dumpling party? Consider a menu for a proper British picnic menu or a romantic dinner with cocktails and smoked salmon kettle chip “blini?” One of my favorite elements of the book is the cooks’ tried and true hacks for organizing appetizers, planning drinks and how to diplomatically (and creatively) answer the question, “What should I bring?” Any foodie will love this book… Now, what wine should we pair with the recipes?
Cost is around $23 USD and can be ordered HERE.
GoVino Glassware Collection
Years ago, I became a fan-girl of GoVino and it’s wonderful to know that their product continues to be a resounding success. Shatterproof, reusable, sustainable, dishwasher safe, the GoVino glassware collection is perfect for entertaining. Cost is $12.95 for a 2-pack (as seen in the photo below), but there are many types of glassware from which to choose. Click HERE and find your favorites.
As a bonus, GoVino has a “Friendsgiving Sweepstakes,” running online until November 30th 2023. In conjunction with Murphy-Goode winery, the sweepstakes provides an opportunity for wine enthusiasts and newbies alike to experience the spirit of togetherness, gratitude, and the joy of sharing a meal this holiday season. In essence, the sweepstakes encapsulates the essence of special occasions, emphasizing the importance of creating memorable moments, and of course, savoring great wine.
This incredible prize package features a grand prize of a $1,500 gift card that can be used towards food, drinks, and decorations for your Friendsgiving celebration. Even better, there will be weekly winners who will receive a $500 gift card to help support hosting an unforgettable Friendsgiving celebration and a set of “best GoVino glassware.” Enter now the contest HERE.
Kloveo Champagne Stopper
Don’t let your champagne (or sparkling wine) go to waste at the next holiday gathering. The chrome-plated stainless steel body and hinge construction makes Kloveo the most durable sparkling wine stopper and is the #1 best selling stopper in Italy and France. Even if you already have a champagne or sparkling wine stopper, get this! The Kloveo champagne stopper is available HERE for $24.99 and is a perfect stocking stuffer or hostess gift.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
For more Grape Experiences and a free infographic “4 Keys to a Stellar Wine Pick” click here.
