How to Make the Perfect Wine Gift Basket

“Sorrow can be alleviated by good sleep, a bath and a glass of good wine.” - Aquinas, St. Thomas

Imagine how many days of celebration and chaos can be drained away in a wonderful glass of wine, picked specifically to your recipient's taste? Creating a perfect basket of wines, accessories and equipment might be the best gift for a wine lover. Here are a few tips for customizing the perfect basket for the foodie, enthusiast, or the wine sophisticate in your life.

Start with the Container

The first thing in the agenda is to choose the right kind of basket. There are several options available in the market, and each sets a different theme. For instance, a picnic basket fits best for outdoor settings, while a big colander is a smart way to give a housewarming gift.

No matter which type of container you choose, make sure to line the base with cloth or paper to provide the wine bottles a little cushion.

Choose the Right Wine

This is the key to making a perfect wine basket: choosing your wine bottles. If you know what your recipient will like, include a bottle of their favorite and another bottle that is new to them.

In case your recipient is new to the whole concept, it is wise to avoid complex wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon. Buy a wine that is low in tannin, an element that offers the drink its dry taste. Perhaps a Merlot, a Gewurztraminer, Pinot Noir are smarter options for amateurs. Also, in case the person has no clear favorite, then its best to give them a wine that is best for the season. Since we are in the heat of summer, you can include a bottle or two of your favorite summer wine that you think your recipient will love.

Snacks

From the days of its inception, wine has always been paired with different varieties of food. So, your next step should be to choose delectable items to tuck under the wine bottles. Start with specific varieties of cheese such as Parmigiano-Reggiano and Gouda. Packages of crackers, pasta, nuts, olives, and smoked salmon are other tasty options. If you’d like to add chocolate, try pairing a Pinot Noir or a light Merlot with milk chocolates. Dark chocolates usually go best with robust wines such as Zinfandels and Cabs.

Accessories

Finally, to make the basket more attractive, add some wine accessories and tools. There is a range of accessories that can be used including, wine stoppers, aerators, charms, glasses and even a wine journal. Citronella candles and a blanket are also great to accompany a basket.

The Final Step

Before gifting your wine gift basket, make sure all items are properly cushioned and secure. Although the contents of your container will do the decoration for you, a bit of ribbons or an embroidered dish towel hanging over the side are chic ways to add personality to your container.

Follow these easy tips for a creative way to bring about memorable and amazing experiences for your loved ones. They will absolutely love you for the gesture and hard work.

Anniversary Gifts for Him and Her

Anniversary is an occasion worthy of celebration. It is a milestone that signifies your strength and compassion towards each other to make your marriage work. While being together is the greatest gift you can give one another, finding a present for your significant other symbolizes the value they hold in your life. From a traditional gift to something romantic and customized, here are a few suggestions on what to buy your partner for an anniversary.

For Him

If you want your husband to be head over heels in love with the gift, these ideas can do the trick:

Gadgets

Almost all men love gadgets. Choose something that will capture his interest or make his life easier. For instance, if he loves to read, consider buying him an e-book reader. If he loves his car, gift him a car accessory such as a GPS system or a car seat massager.

Tickets to a Sporting Event

Gift your partner the opportunity to see his favorite team live in action. Buy him at least two tickets so that he can take you or a buddy along. Gifting tickets extends the anniversary celebration and allows your man to look forward to the big occasion.

A Man basket

Gift baskets are a big hit among couples these days. There are a variety of things that you can add to his ‘man basket’ including, a pleasing combination of sweet and savory snacks, sausages, creamy cheddar cheese, trail mixes, and a bottle/crate of his favorite wine or beer.

For Her

Every woman is different by desires, likes and dislikes. To find the right anniversary gift for your special one, observe her personality. Try to find out about her favorites. You can also use these tips to get started.

Jewelry

For an anniversary present that represents eternal love, surprise her with a piece of jewelry, like an eternity ring. An eternity ring is a band of diamonds set completely or halfway round the circumference. When choosing a ring, make sure it coordinates with the diamonds and metal in her wedding ring as she may want to wear the piece with her wedding rings.

Spa Basket

An overflowing basket of bath salts, body lotion, shower gel, foot soak, body scrub, bar soap and butter, sponge, bubble bath, and much more is sure to delight her and help her relax and unwind.

A Romantic Meal

When nothing else comes to mind, a romantic dinner with your loved one can never go out of style. You can book a table for two at a classy restaurant, one that has low lights, candles and great food. In case you’re planning to cook an elaborate meal for your honey, make sure you set the scene. Put candles and flowers on the table, use the best crockery and dress up well.

Being together with your partner for a year or more is an accomplishment. However, it can get monotonous by this time, so gift your loved one something as a reminder of how much you care about and love each other. It’s not necessary to spend a lot of money. Remember, in the end, it's always the thought that counts.