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.