There once was a Jolly Old Man, who had himself a gift plan. Find the prefect wine, to take when he dined. Nothing too sweet, he already had some holiday treats. Something with body, he was sure he would be naughty. It had to be great, he was already late, but were could he find such a gem? His favorite wine store had everything and more. He just needed a gift bag and a holiday tag and he would be out the door.

The holidays are a time for fun and festivities. Stressing over that perfect fermented gift is not fun and can put a damper on any festive event. Try to relax and remember these three simple words

1. Bubbles

2. Baubles

and

3. Beer

 Bubbles are always festive and make people feel special. Whether you like red, white, pink, sweet or dry, the perfect bubbles exist.If you like Chardonnay, try NV Diebolt-Vallois, Blanc de Blanc Brut, Champagne. It is elegant with white floral aromas and crème brulee creaminess on the finish. $46.50

If you desire red wine like Pinot Noir or Merlot fill those stockings with NV Gran Gesta Brut Rose. Made from 100% Trepat grapes with ripe strawberry and mulberry flavors. $16.50

If sweet wines make you smile then a Moscato d’Asti will make you cheer. Our favorite is Bera, Moscato d’Asti. It is like sitting in a field of honeysuckle and peach trees. $22.50

Finally, if you want a value wine to pour for large parties, get a few bottles of NV Nardi Giordano Prosecco. A yummy glass of bubbles that smells like crisp apples and white peaches. $11.99

Baubles and wine accessories are great for that wine fan that has Champagne taste, when you live a beer lifestyle. Pick up some cute wine cork ornaments for $4.99, wine based jellies for $7.50, Cabernet Grape seed soaps for $4.99, Vintage wine label coasters for $5.99 each and handmade wine glass charms for as little as $4.50 each.

Foodies and wine fans alike enjoy unusual vinegars and high quality olive oils. Consider a bottle of Benimousu Purple Sweet Potato Vinegar $38.25, 5 year old Banyuls Vinegar $17.00, Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Fattoria di Felsina $28.99 and Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Therapni $14.99. Yummy.

And if you have a fan of art, what about a tea light holder or serving tray made from an old wine barrel stave. They come in three stains and look great on mantels and dining tables. They range in price from $35.00 to $45.00 dollars.

Beer is not a typical holiday gift, but it should be. There are so many awesome seasonal beers now. May I suggest, Bells Christmas Ale $1.89, The Duck Rabbit Wee Heavy Scotch Style Ale $2.20 and Rogue Santa’s Private Reserve Ale $2.25.

If you want something with a little more cheer, try a 750ml of Mother Earth Organic Silent Night $18.50. Imperial ale aged in Oak Bourbon Barrels. Give me a big HO,HO, HO.

Cheers and have a Great Holiday Season!