With Christmas around the corner, it's time to tackle the task of finding original gifts. I always feel that no matter how smoothly Christmas shopping goes, there is always someone on the “Nice List” for whom buying a present is dauntingly complex. Wine-related gifts represent a good choice. The selection of wine accessories is extensive: wine glasses, decanters, bottle holders and more. For those who have already exhausted these options and want a better alternative than giving “yet another corkscrew,” here are a few ideas to help make this Christmas magical, fun and delicious!
The Gift of Wine Knowledge
The world of wine is a fascinating field, with a lot to learn about and discover. A gift certificate for a wine course is a wonderful present for someone looking to get into wine or perfect their knowledge.
Wine classes are available in different formats and locations across the Lehigh Valley and the Philly area. Locally, the Historic Hotel Bethlehem is running a series of wine classes starting in February 2017, with entertaining themes, tasty pairings and will conclude with a creative Wine Dinner.
To go one step further, the WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) provides wine education and qualifications with a more academic approach. Different levels and school locations are available (check www.phillywine.com for courses in Philadelphia). Even better, the qualifications are recognized around the globe. As I was studying through the WSET, I met people who started classes simply for fun and developed a real passion. Some of my fellow classmates decided to switch their careers to the wine industry (and relocated to the Napa Valley for the luckiest!).
The Ultimate Gift Basket
Giving a bottle of wine is a great idea but adding the perfect food pairing will bring it to the next level.
It is simple to create a tailored gift basket with “made in heaven” culinary match. Stop by your favorite local delicatessen store (“Seasons” on Main Street in Downtown Bethlehem is my personal favorite!) to build your personalized gift basket and then add a bottle of wine from your local “Fine Wine & Good Spirits” store. Here are a few ideas and themes:
- Manchego cheese with Spanish Ham (Jamón ibérico if possible!), a tin of Marcona almonds and a bottle of Priorat from Spain
- White truffle olive oil (delicious when drizzled on Italian handmade pasta), a slice of Parmiggiano Reggiano and a bottle of Barolo or Barbaresco from Italy
- Wild smoked salmon, caviar, fresh bread and a bottle of Champagne Blanc de Blancs from France
- For a sweet combination, a selection of Italian biscotti with a bottle of sweet Muscat or a box of fine chocolates to pair with a bottle of dessert wine such as Banuyls or a bottle of PX Port.
The options are endless and this will delight any food lover!
“Outside the Box” Wine Pairings
Wine pairing is not limited to food. Every music style has a match when it comes to wine.
Listening to music is an experience that delivers sensations, just like drinking a nice glass of wine. Combining a bottle of wine with a CD or concert tickets can prove to be an entertaining and original gift idea. From rock (I like a good Malbec) to Opera (a bold Bordeaux or a lush Amarone) via Jazz (I would recommend bubbles), the combinations can focus on the relationship between the wine and music or reflect their country of origins.
The pairing can also convey a special message. Why not put together a bottle of wine with a travel book from the wine's region, just to say “Let's go visit Tuscany this summer.”
Merry Christmas everyone.
Cheers!
About the Author
Céline Riquelme is an International wine specialist, wine consultant and wine blogger.
A native of France, Céline has worked and lived throughout Europe and the USA and holds the Diploma of the WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust). Céline founded “Three Cheers Wine Solutions” based in Center Valley to share her knowledge and passion for wine. Céline helps clients select the best wines to serve during their special events and hosts tailor-made wine tasting experiences as well as wine educational classes. Occasions range from small parties (private dinners, bridal showers) to large gatherings (weddings, networking and charity events, corporate team-building…)
Céline also provides consulting to restaurants to optimize their wine list, train their staff and enhance the restaurants' profile through wine related events. She is also the official Wine Coordinator for the restaurants at the Historic Hotel Bethlehem.
To learn more about hosting a private wine tasting or get advice regarding wine selection for a future event threecheerswine.com
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