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Home > Blogs > Uncorked > Archives > 2005 > December > 12 > Entry
Wine Gift Ideas for the Holidays — Mine AND YOURS!
Sure, you all have your holiday shopping done, right?
Well, this is the time of year that I start thinking about holiday shopping. And I suspect I’m not alone.
If you have a wine enthusiast on your list — or you are one and are looking to plant suggestions with your honeybunny — “Uncorked” is the place for you. But not just for what I suggest. I invite YOU to “post a comment” to this entry (see below) to suggest your own wine-related gift ideas. C’mon, help us out! Here are a few things I’d recommend:
— Looking for a really good …
… wine appreciation DVD? Look no further than the “Get Real Wine Series: Napa & Sonoma Harvest,” created by Dayton’s own master blues guitarist and wine shop owner Eric Jerardi and his manager, Allen Farst. The 74-minute DVD is based on a four-day visit to wine country during the 2005 harvest, when Jerardi visited and chatted with Napa and Sonoma wine folks from Markham, Honig, Steltzner and more. This DVD does a fine job demystifying wine; it will make those who watch it enjoy wine more, and will make more people enjoy wine. I think every wine shop in the country that offers a Wine 101 class should buy a copy of this DVD and show it to kick off the first class. An added bonus: Jerardi’s music on the soundtrack. The DVD is hot off the presses, and is available by sending a check or money order for $21.99 to Niche Productions/Get Real Wine, PO Box 90383, Dayton OH 45490. It’s also available at Amazon.com for preorder for shipping after Dec. 27, according to Amazon’s web site.
— Wine Report 2006 by Tom Stevenson ($15, DK): There are many pocket-guide style wine books on the market — Oz Clarke and Anthony Dias Blue have updated theirs for 2006 — and all have their strengths. But Stevenson brings together a first-rate team of contributors who add their expertise to the mix. Contributors include Masters of Wine Clive Coates, David Peppercorn and Serena Sutcliffe, among others. All deliver solid reports and express opinions on every wine region in every nook and cranny of the world, and on the wine issues of the day. A satisfying package. Besides, how can you not like a book with an introduction entitled “No sex please, we’re British”?
For something a bit heftier to put on the coffee table and impress your friends, Stevenson also authors The Sotheby’s Wine Encyclopedia: The Classic Reference for the Wines of the World ($50, also DK). The updated 4th edition has just been released.
— Usually, the wine gift catalogs that clog my mailbox are filled with overpriced gift baskets and assorted other lame stuff. But here’s one item that caught my eye: Wine.com “100 Years of Port” (item #83104) that consists of one 375 ml bottle each of four different Presidential Porto ports: 10-year, 20-year, 30-year and 40-year-old Tawny Ports (100 years, get it?), for $149.99. I’m not familiar with the producer, and unfortunately, the web site seems to suggest this item is not available in Ohio but is available in California, among other states. In any event, I give this an “A” for creativity — and for math.
— Speaking of Ohio, if you’re looking to explore Ohio wineries and wine country, Ohio Wine Country Excursions by Patricia Latimer ($25, Emmmis Books) is a great place to start. It’s chock full of vital statistics on Ohio’s wineries and explores the history of winemaking in the Buckeye state. Order this book and start planning some winery visits after the thaw.
Just a smattering of suggestions to start the crunchtime shopping season. If you have suggestions, pleae post a comment and let us know about YOUR gift ideas!
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Comments
By Richard Hunt
January 4, 2006 2:08 AM | Link to this
The Ohio Wine Excursions book you recommended is exceptional. Great information and photos - makes you want to start the dream tasting vacation right now!
By Per K
December 14, 2005 7:45 AM | Link to this
A few other ideas, in different price ranges: FREE: Give a wine calendar. Here’s one that you can download and print (and you can sign up for (or give) the free wine newsletter): http://www.bkwine.com/diverse/wine-calendar.htm US$ 10-20: Wine tasting note book, printed wine calendar, cards…: http://www.cafepress.com/bkwine http://www.cafepress.com/bkwine ~US$ 700-800: The ultimate wine lover gift: a wine tour to a wine region that will give both entertainment and learning: http://www.bkwine.com/winetours/winetours.htm
By Matt Bonanno - Chicago
December 13, 2005 6:31 PM | Link to this
As the agent for Steltzner Vineyards, I’m very happy to see the Steltzner family finely get the recognition they deserve.
By Susan Olson
December 13, 2005 2:56 PM | Link to this
CRUSH CAMP - The Perfect Holiday Gift for Wine Lovers This holiday season, give the wine lover in your life a “tasteâ€? of what it’s like to be a Napa Valley winemaker during harvest season — Send them to Crush Camp! This exciting wine country weekend, hosted by Napa and Sonoma Valley’s most renowned wineries (including Sterling Vineyards, Beaulieu Vineyard, Provenance Vineyards, Acacia Vineyard, and Moon Mountain Vineyard) provides wine enthusiasts the unique opportunity to combine leisure and education. Over the course of two days, “campersâ€? get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at harvest operations and learn about the art of winemaking from top Napa Valley winemakers. Each camper receives hands on experience harvesting grapes from the vine, assisting winemakers with the crush, and creating their own personalized blend of wine. As an added bonus, special guest Chef Joey Altman of TV’s BayCafĂ© and Diageo’s National Chef Spokesperson also leads campers in preparing a harvest dinner, paired with a selection of wine from participating wineries. “Crush Camp is an event like no other,â€? said Will Smith, Director of Education for Diageo Chateau & Estate Wines. “It gives wine enthusiasts a chance to do something they’ve always wanted to do: become a winemaker for a day. We combine that with wonderful harvest meals, spectacular scenery, and an opportunity to meet some of the most talented winemakers in the world. For many, Crush Camp is an unforgettable experience.â€? Crush Camp Date: September 15-16, 2006 Crush Camp Cost: Approximately: $875 (includes 2 nights hotel accommodation and meals during the program) For more information or to purchase a gift certificate, contact Lynn Higgins, National Events Manager for Diageo Chateau & Estate Wines. (707) 967-5288, lynn.higgins@diageo.com. Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon – The Perfect Gift for the Wine Connoisseur in Your Life Since its first vintage in 1936, George de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon has become America’s first “cult Cabernet.â€? Today, this extraordinary Napa Valley wine continues to be one of the most sought after and collectable wines in the United States. This exceptional wine is a “must haveâ€? in every collector’s cellar. This holiday season and every season to come, eliminate the shopping guesswork. Give the gift of Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and help the wine lover in your life build a vertical lineup. The 2002 vintage is now available at retail across the nation. Older vintages (beginning at 1967) are available through Beaulieu Vineyard. The 1992-97 vintages are sold together in a convenient six-pack (SRP $750). To purchase older vintages, visit the Beaulieu Vineyard website at www.bvwines.com. The suggested retail price for the 2002 Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is $85.00 per bottle.
By Grapes of Ruth
December 13, 2005 12:22 PM | Link to this
Eric’s wine DVD is available at the Grapes of Ruth.
By Allen Farst
December 13, 2005 10:34 AM | Link to this
Hello- I received several emails this week regarding the Get Real Wine DVD and where to pick up a copy. In Dayton, you can find it at: Borders, Dorothy Lane Markets [all 3], Ken’s Pharmacy, Kroger [Centerville, Springboro, Engelwood], Gem City Records, CD Connection [all 7 locations] Jerardi’s Little Store and more are coming on-line everyday. Nationally, you can hit Amazon- the release date is set as Dec 27th, however, we are trying to move that up. Thanks to everyone on this blog for the kind words about the DVD- a special thanks to Mark Fisher- Dayton’s own- for having a real passion for wine. None of this would have been possible if Bryan Del Bondio, President of Markham Vineyards- had not gotten so involved with us. He is a true gentlemen and scholar. Bryan let us be apart of the 2005 harvest and enjoy how wine is truly made- with a group of people- the right people- that care about and respect others- along with having that same passion about making wine. I truly feel wine buying is about the stories from the vineyard and the people in them- you can trust that Markham puts that passion into each bottle. That’s why we picked them to be in the DVD. Cheers! Allen Farst- Director, “Get Real Wine Series”
By rachel
December 13, 2005 10:27 AM | Link to this
Another great gift for wine-lovers is something a little unusual - perfume that smells like wine. Wine manufacturer Ginestet has developed a line of fragrance inspired by its most popular wines, from Bordeaux to Sauternes. One of them even looks like a miniature bottle of wine! I found them online at LuckyScent.com
By Mark Fisher
December 13, 2005 7:32 AM | Link to this
Good Heavens, Eric, how many e-mail screen names does your mom HAVE? Just KIDDING, just KIDDING … Looks like your DVD has impressed many folks in addition to me… Mark Fisher
By Sue
December 13, 2005 12:20 AM | Link to this
Eric’s wine DVD is the perfect gift. The day after viewing it I ran to the Little Store to buy four more copies (and I’m not done shopping yet). The DVD is certainly very informative but what impressed me most was the feeling that I was there. You really get that insider’s view most of us will never have the opportunity to experience personally. Thanks Eric, I’ll be watching for the next DVD in the series.
By Bill
December 12, 2005 9:24 PM | Link to this
I wandered into “The Little Store” a few years ago. At the time my idea of great wine was some sweet white stuff from Germany, well needless to say Eric really changed my mind. Not only did he befriend me, but he also opened my eyes to the wonderful world of Red wine(especially Italian Reds), and there is no looking back now. I enjoy Big Red Wines on a regular basis and almost no white wine of any price can compare with a decent red. And did I mention the FACT that nobody beats “The Little Store” on prices, not to mention some of the best Deli sandwiches in town. Where else can you buy fine wine, food, music and now the “Get Real” Wine DVD? Who Luv’s Ya Baby!
By Tim
December 12, 2005 7:43 PM | Link to this
I found the Get Real Wine DVD to be educational and at the same time a pleasure to watch. Thanks for putting this out there, Eric - I’ve just knocked a few more names off of my christmas list.
By Table Top Joe
December 12, 2005 7:12 PM | Link to this
I found the DVD to be quite informative as well as fun to watch. Eric really knows his stuff and brings in some big guns from Napa and Sonoma to talk through everything from grapes to nuts. Or is that soup to….or…… grape-nuts……Well anyway, it is a must stocking stuffer for the novice sipper, the most seasoned wino, and everyone in between.
By susan
December 12, 2005 5:15 PM | Link to this
I had a chance to watch Eric Jerardi’s “Get Real” wine DVD. It is excellent for those who are new to wine and those with wine knowledge. What a great holiday gift! Informational and fun to watch.
By cathy
December 12, 2005 3:46 PM | Link to this
I can’t wait to see Eric’s video. Other gift ideas: The Ravenscroft decanter I gave as a gift last year was a big hit (decanters.com did a great job shipping). Also Riedel or Spiegalau wine glasses. Drinking from the correct glass really makes a difference!
By Marialuisa Planzo
December 12, 2005 2:24 PM | Link to this
Here are a few seasonal suggestions for gifts: The “time-issueâ€? is enhanced during the holidays and every year we scramble to think of a speedy gift that encompasses style, personality, and informal elegance; and let’s not forget - inexpensive. Luna di Luna is a gift that leaves a lasting impression and can be achieved in both a quick and inexpensive fashion. The classic “Rudolph Red” (Merlot/Cabernet) or “Holly Green” (Chardonnay/Sauvignon) bottles of wine that do the decorating for you. Toss a ribbon around the neck and head out the door. The Merlot/Cabernet tastes of blackberry, raspberry and ripe plum while the Chardonnay/Sauvignon offers a light fruit taste with a crisp finish. Both are $9.99 Luna di Luna also offers blends in blue, purple, yellow and orange bottles, which make for great gifts for the sports fanatic. You can choose a color that represents their favorite team.
By Bryan
December 12, 2005 2:03 PM | Link to this
Nice job Eric and Allen. This DVD is just what we need to help the regular guy and gal relax about wine. After over 28 years here at Markham, 17 as President, it has become evident that we need to make people comfortable about wine and winemaking. You did a great job at this task. I know that Markham and myself got a lot of play on this DVD, but the other presenters you chose did a fantastic job. I loved Mike’s piece on Biodynanic farming, and what can you say about people like Celia, Cindy, Michael and the gang here at Markham. If we are going to get America to drink wine daily this DVD is surely what we need. Plus, you will be happier and healthier as well.
By Tom Wark
December 12, 2005 1:55 PM | Link to this
If the wine enthusiast is on your list then books are really the way to go. I don’t suggest “beginner books” however, unless you absolutely know they are beginners. Instead, get them a good read. Paul Lukacs new “The Great Wines of America” will challenge and delight ANYONE who has an interest in California and America’s best wines. Beautifully researched and written it really is one of the best wines books of 2005.
By ToddN
December 12, 2005 1:20 PM | Link to this
Just a short note to say how much I was impressed with Eric’s video. It is probably the first video that serves as “fuel” to learn more for beginners as well as a review for experts— all done in a very good, well-paced, laid back format. For those of you that do not know Eric, this video also gives good insight to his personality (the outakes especially.) Very well done indeed. Also a book suggestion for the Italian wine lover: Vino Italiano by Joseph Bastianich, David Lynch and Lidia Matticchio Bastianich. It is like reading an encyclopedia, only enjoying it. From the traditional recipes included in each chapter, the great DOC and DOCG maps, all of the glossaries, and the Fast Facts section, you can’t help but fall in love with the wines of Italy. For the hardcore Baolo enthusiasts: go over to piedmontreport.com and sign up for the newsletter. Antonio has or soon will begin by subscription only (they are free now, but please donate to help the cause). This is simply the most comprehensive, honest, and unjaded view of Piedmont that exsists.
By doug
December 12, 2005 12:43 PM | Link to this
I watched the Jerardi DVD the other day… It’s outstanding. Why buy it as a gift? Get it for yourself and enjoy it. BTW, it’s cheaper when you buy it at Eric’s store, and you can pick up the proper accompanying libation at the same time. (No relation to the Jerardi clan or empire to disclaim…)
By Ardie Bonanno
December 12, 2005 12:20 PM | Link to this
Eric’s new dvd is very informative, very helpful for the new wine enthusiast. I’ve given copies to my sales staff to take to our accounts and have had numerous people tell us how helpful and insightful this video is. This video and a nice bottle of wine would make a great stocking stuffer. Highly recommended. Ardie Bonanno EstateWineCompany