Wine lovers exist on a spectrum from casual enjoyment to serious collecting. The best wine gifts match their level of involvement while introducing them to new experiences or improving their existing rituals.
Essential Accessories
Wine Decanters ($30-150)
Decanting improves most red wines by exposing them to air, softening tannins and releasing aromas. Classic designs from Riedel and Zalto combine functionality with elegant presentation. For travelers or those short on storage, collapsible decanters solve space constraints.
Quality Corkscrews ($20-100)
A reliable corkscrew prevents the frustration of crumbled corks and spilled wine. The Pulltap’s double-hinged waiter’s corkscrew remains the sommelier standard for good reason—simple, effective, and nearly indestructible. Electric options from Oster or Cuisinart suit those who prefer push-button convenience.
Wine Preservation Systems ($30-300)
The Coravin system extracts wine without removing the cork, preserving bottles for weeks or months. This revolutionizes wine enjoyment for those who want a single glass without committing to finish the bottle. Vacuum pump systems like Vacu Vin provide budget-friendly preservation for a few days.
Glassware
Proper glassware genuinely affects wine enjoyment. Riedel and Zalto produce varietal-specific glasses that enhance different wine styles. A set of universal glasses covers most needs, while Burgundy and Bordeaux shapes suit serious collectors of those varieties.
Stemless glasses from Riedel O or similar lines suit casual entertaining without the worry of tipped stems. For outdoor use, durable options from GoVino provide wine glass shapes in shatterproof material.
Wine Education and Discovery
Wine Subscriptions ($50-150/month)
Wine clubs introduce enthusiasts to bottles they’d never encounter otherwise. Services like Winc, Naked Wines, and First Leaf curate selections based on taste preferences. For more adventurous recipients, natural wine subscriptions from Mysa or Primal Wine explore unconventional winemaking.
Books and Resources
Wine Folly’s visual guides make wine education accessible and engaging. The World Atlas of Wine provides comprehensive regional coverage. For those seeking certifications, WSET course enrollment offers structured learning with international recognition.
Wine Aerators ($15-80)
Aerators provide instant decanting effects by infusing wine with air as it pours. The Vinturi and similar devices suit impatient drinkers who want improved flavor without waiting. Pocket aerators travel easily for restaurant use.
Storage Solutions
Proper storage matters for anyone keeping bottles beyond immediate consumption. Small wine fridges from NewAir or Wine Enthusiast maintain ideal temperature and humidity. Even a basic 12-bottle cooler dramatically improves storage conditions compared to kitchen storage.
For casual collectors, wine racks from creative designers turn bottles into displayed art. Wall-mounted options save floor space while keeping wine accessible.
Experience Gifts
Winery tours and tastings create lasting memories. Vineyard visits in nearby wine regions combine education with beautiful scenery. Virtual tastings delivered with wine samples bring winery experiences home. Cooking classes featuring wine pairings appeal to culinary-minded wine lovers.
