With only a week until Christmas, are you still searching for a few last minute gifts? Check out some of these ideas for those who are connoisseurs or new to wine.

Holiday wine at Mazza Winery

1. Wine books -Of course, we have to put our book A Wine Journey first, this currently available on several .com websites including Powell’s Books, Amazon and Barnes and Noble. A Wine Journey is an enjoyable read for anyone interested in wine from the novice to the connoisseur.
2.  Single Varietal Grape seed oil from Aprés Vin. This company is a small business in Washington that focuses on obtaining grape seeds from some of the large wineries. In addition to grape seed oil, they produce gluten free grape seed flour and grape seed soap. Products are available at many locations in Washington and Oregon and in some other states or online. Aprés Vin is currently offering free shipping on orders over $100.
3. Olive oil is very popular with cooks. Winery tasting rooms frequently have olive oil available. B.R. Cohn Winery & Olive Oil Company in California not only produces wine but produces olive oil. Or perhaps the book published in 2011 Extra Virginity: The Sublime and Scandalous World of Olive Oil.
4. Corkscrews come in all sizes and shapes. Some can be found for a couple of dollars while there is high-end corkscrew that is reportedly $400. One or two corkscrews on the market are available for those with arthritis.
5. Wine glasses Wine connoisseurs most likely have all the glassware they need but what about someone new to wine? Start them off with some nice wine glasses. They do not have to be expensive but they can be. When purchasing wine glasses look for clear glass (so one can see the color), a thin lip (so that the wine easily flows into one’s mouth) and well balanced. A glass that is not well balanced feels as though it will tip as it is being swirled. Personally I like Riedel. I’ve attended some Riedel demonstrations and think they are on to something with the shape of the glass affecting the type of wine. However, Riedel is one those items that one can collect slowly.
6. Wine When buying wine for someone else I suggest that you purchase a varietal they like, a sparkling wine or an unusual varietal. In any case, with each gift download the application (free) for The Wine Century Club.
7. Aerators are great especially for those who enjoy red wine. While decanters work well another option are the bottle top aerators. Both the full size and bottle top are available in a variety of sizes and shapes.
8. For those who love wine and gadgets, consider an electronic wine chiller. Bed Bath and Beyond offers several different styles and sizes.
9.  Coupons or Gift Certificates Running out of time to find the perfect gift? What about a gift of your time plus car ride and the price of a tasting at a winery? This is a good idea for both the experienced winery visitor and the novice. Check and see what events may be happening and plan to attend an event as part of your gift.
10. Gift baskets – Baskets are fun to make, give and receive. Use your creativity and design a personal basket for each person on your gift list. Be sure to add a bottle of wine!

Cheers, Kathy