Once again the holidays are upon us and, once again, the invitations are flowing and you–being a polite guest–want to bring something nice for your host or hostess.
Unless you’re specifically asked to bring something to be a part of the event, understand that your host is under no obligation to use or consume your gift that night. In fact, a hostess gift is meant to be enjoyed after the guests have departed, as a thank-you for a pleasant time or a way to unwind.
Flowers can send a hostess into a tizzy, trying to find a vase and a place for them while she’s greeting guests, not to mention potential allergies. If you want to send flowers after the fact, that would be a nice gesture along with a nice thank-you note–seriously, the common courtesies are falling by the way-side, it’d be nice to revive them. Still, it’s nice to show up with something in your hand.
Consumables are the best, and wine is considered quite the gifting commodity. Even if your host doesn’t drink, they can always regift it or keep it around for others that do, so it’s a nice, safe choice unless you know they have moral objections to wine or spirits.
Here are some bottles to be on the look out for, at a variety of price points to fit any occasion and budget (my notes are the ones in italics):
Villa Pozzi Pinot Grigio is perfect for the female friends in your life. Whether it is a coworker or a cousin, let them know you’re thinking of them. This unique Sicilian wine produced by the 4th generation winemakers of the Pozzi family, is ideal for the modern woman with its refined aromatic, well balanced taste profile and simply-elegant packaging. SRP $9.99
White wine has no gender. If you know your friends prefer bright white wines, go for it. We found this Pinot Grigio to be an excellent example of the varietal, nice and fruity and it went pretty well with the chicken and wild rice I was serving last night. It’s also a fabulous wine to cook with, especially if they like risotto.
Girard Artistry is the ideal wine for the important men in your life. Perhaps for your father-in-law who enjoys the finer things in life, or your uncle who likes to unwind after work? It is produced by Girard Winery has been producing world-class wine since 1975 that truly and faithfully represent the unique terroir of the Napa Valley. Girard Artistry is stylistically diverse with elegance, balance, power, and finesse. SRP $39.99
A table wine is a blend of many different varietals that make it a great choice for a range of meals. This particular wine seemed on the medium-bodied side to us, which is what we like. Did we consider it a $40 bottle? Not really. But that doesn’t mean it’s a bad choice if you’re looking to impress someone who finds those sorts of things important.
Ruta 22 Malbec is the gift for the adventurous, travel-lover on your list. Have them explore South America, take them on a journey to Patagonia, which produces the finest Malbec in Argentina. Ruta 22, hand harvested wine, will delight them with its dark ruby red color and fruit forward and elegant taste. SRP $12.99
You might remember we shared this one last year, too. It’s tough to go wrong with a South American Malbec.
[ yellow tail ]  bubbles rosé is for that bubbly person who keeps you smiling! Maybe your girlfriend who brings a smile on your face, or your best friend who is the one you’re sharing laughs with and celebrating life with. SRP $9.99
Sparkling wine is the perfect choice the closer we get to New Year’s Eve–providing the Mayans were wrong, of course, and the world doesn’t end on the 21st. Sweet sparklers are growing in popularity (which is fabulous in my book) and a rosé is a nice stepping stone between the dry and sweet. Yellow Tail is a very affordable tipple, perfect for stocking up for the countdown or any cause for celebration.
I can’t imagine the host, coworker, or Secret Santa that wouldn’t love to receive any of those bottles.
Happy Holidays, my friends. Please remember to celebrate responsibly, use a designated driver or call a cab–jail or the hospital is no way to start the new year!
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I was provided samples of the above wines for purposes of review. All opinions expressed are my own.