When the holidays come around, it is difficult to think of the right present sometimes. Don’t bring another knick-knack to gather dust. Give something your friend can enjoy, such as a nice wine basket filled with some choice vintages.

The wine basket does not have to break the bank. A good idea is a theme, like local wines, or wines from a certain country. Or for the gourmand, ask for a selection of the best wines for cooking and tuck a few new recipes into the basket.

Thanksgiving

Most Thanksgiving dinners will include meat. So a bottle or two of red wine makes a nice hostess gift. If you are coming right before dinner, chill the bottles for the wine basket so they can be served for dinner immediately.

Birthdays

Birthdays are a special celebration even for adults. To go with the sweet birthday treats, make a wine basket with some sweet whites and roses. And you don’t have to save the sparkling wine for New Year’s; you can give your friend a champagne toast any time of year.

Summer Vacation

Hot days bring us out for barbecue and fishing. So the summer wine basket should be filled with light wines good for eating with fish or cool vegetables. Pick mostly white wines for summer menus, or if you are hooked on red, consider something that makes a good sangria. Sangria is wine mixed with fruit juice, tea, and fruit pieces for a cold, refreshing drink.

Winter Holidays

Cold weather and hearty meals call for a different kind of drink. At this time of year your host may appreciate red wine to make wassail, a hot punch made of wine mixed with spices and sometimes other ingredients. Add a little jar of wassail spices to make sure your friend gets the hint.

On New Year’s Eve, it is a tradition to have a glass of champagne, sparkling wine. Doubtless a host will be happy to receive champagne to get ready for the New Year’s celebration. The staff at the wine shop can help you pick a bottle or two for your basket for less than $25.

Wine Basket Fillers

If the whole family does not drink wine, include a few compliments that everyone can enjoy in a wine basket. Cheese, fruit, and crackers are classic wine compliments. If your friend is starting housekeeping, include a bottle opener or a set of elegant glasses and coasters.