The holiday season is simply incomplete without the joy of gifting wine. We’ve all been in the position of wondering which wine to choose. Here are some selected tips to help you select and present wine in a way that demonstrates your respect for the recipient’s personality, preferences, and level of wine knowledge.
Understand the recipient’s preferences
When purchasing wine as a gift or selecting from your own collection, take a moment to consider the tastes of the person receiving it. Remember, you’re not choosing wine for yourself! If you have a deep appreciation for wine, you may have developed a palate for selections that might overwhelm a novice. For those just beginning their wine journey, a bottle of aromatic, fruit-forward wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir, offers a delightful introduction to the world of wine aromas. Opt for wines that are ready to drink rather than those meant for long aging.
Sparkling wine: a timeless choice
Gifting wine to a connoisseur can be a challenge, requiring thoughtful consideration. In some cases, a well-regarded vintage from a reputable winery may be ideal, while in others, an intriguing, lesser-known label might hit the mark. If you suspect the recipient has a more sophisticated palate than yours, it’s wise to consult with knowledgeable staff at a wine shop rather than going it alone.
If you’re uncertain about the recipient’s preferences, a bottle of quality sparkling wine is always a safe bet for holidays, celebrations, academic milestones, or any joyful occasion. Sparkling wines appeal to both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts, offering a wide selection. You might choose established wines from Champagne or explore exciting options from other regions. In Serbia, exceptional sparkling wines are crafted using methode traditionelle, such as the Ergo Rosé 2018 from Temet, a classic blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that showcases remarkable fruity freshness.
The art of packaging
The way you present the wine communicates to the host how to handle it—whether to save it for later or enjoy it immediately. Gifting wine without any wrap whatsoever or perhaps with a simple bow around the neck, suggests to the host that opening it that evening might be a good idea—without any obligation, of course! If you want the recipient to immediately recognize the wine without unwrapping, consider wrapping it in clear material to keep the label visible.
Conversely, presenting wine in a decorative wooden box is particularly fitting for bottles with aging potential. This approach is perfect for celebrating significant life milestones—such as the birth of a child or graduation—events that can be cherished over a decade and revisited with a special bottle of wine.
Embrace even numbers
When it comes to quantity, unlike flowers, wine can be gifted in even numbers. Presenting two bottles of the same wine signals your confidence in your selection and allows the recipient the option to enjoy a second bottle during a home dinner. A curated selection of wines is a luxurious and thoughtful gift that showcases your wine knowledge, allowing you to create a micro-collection based on style, varietal, terroir, vintage, or another theme.
Wine is undeniably a timeless gift, bringing with it very few worries. Even if you happen to make an imperfect choice, rest assured that every bottle will find its way to someone who appreciates it!
