Shop – NapaValley.com https://www.napavalley.com Explore Napa Valley Wed, 31 Jan 2024 21:17:51 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 2021 Holiday Gift Guide for the Wine Lovers in Your Life https://www.napavalley.com/blog/2021-holiday-gift-guide-for-wine-lovers/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/2021-holiday-gift-guide-for-wine-lovers/#respond Sat, 13 Nov 2021 00:23:44 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=48010 Keep the holiday shopping stress-free this year. Our 2021 holiday gift guide is full of wine, food, and fun-filled gifts for all the wine lovers in your life.

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There’s already enough to think about during the holidays, like who is hosting Christmas dinner? What stories are going to emerge from the office holiday party? Will it be ham, turkey, or tofurky this year? And just how “ugly” do they really mean when they say “ugly sweater party”?

With that in mind, we have removed the stress from what some feel is the biggest, scariest to-do this season: holiday gift shopping. We’ve searched high and low to compile the perfect round up of gift ideas for everyone on your list. And to make your holiday shopping even easier, our gift guide only features items that can be purchased online, so pour yourself a glass and get clicking.

Are you the kind of person who breaks into a cold sweat when someone mentions how many days there are until Christmas? Panics at the mere mention of “holiday shopping”? Fear not! We have created the most comprehensive holiday gift guide yet, packed with dozens of wine-themed gift ideas for the wine lover, the foodie, mom and dad, and even the pickiest, fussiest, most difficult-to-buy-for people on your list. And the best part? All of these items are available for purchase online. So, refill that wine glass and get shopping.

Your mother taught you to never show up empty-handed to someone else’s house. But instead of that dusty, off-vintage wine that’s probably on round five of the regifting circuit, why not bring one of those holiday gifts that you’d really like to keep for yourself?

  1. Domaine Carneros Merry Cocktail – Domaine Carneros, $170 | This set not only features a bottle of Estate Brut Cuvée, it also includes gorgeous sparkling vintage coupes, a gold-brushed 4-piece bar set and shaker, gold rimming sugar, and a jar of French brandied Cherry Griottines. Sparkling wine cocktails, anyone?
  2. Medlock Ames 2021 Garden Collection Gift Set – Medlock Ames, $150 | This gift set offers all the good things in life – a bottle of 2018 Kate’s & B’s Cabernet Sauvignon, their zippy estate-grown olive oil, and a jar of mixed berry jam all bundled up in a gorgeous Medlock Ames gift box.
  3. Vera Wang PARTY Prosecco – VeraWangParty.com, $24.95 | Set the right tone for any holiday gathering when you show up with a bottle of this bright, fun, and fashion-forward bubbly.

If you’ve got someone on your list with a bad case of wanderlust, keep them grounded, while still indulging their jet-setting tendencies, with these wine-travel-themed gifts.

  1. Napa Valley Framed Map – WineCountry Shop, $75 | A stylish addition to any wine lover’s wall, this detailed map of the famous Napa Valley wine region lays out over 400 wineries and 16 AVAs all printed on premium paper, matted, and framed with a choice of black, white, or natural frame.
  2. Russian River Road Trip Gift Package – Papapietro Perry, $220 | Sip your way through the Russian River Valley and explore what makes this region so celebrated for its pinot noir without ever leaving home. This gift set includes three unique expressions of pinot noir, a wine opener, and some handmade Volo Chocolates.
  3. WineCountry Experiences Gift Card – WineCountry Experiences, any amount | From activities like vineyard horseback rides to walking food tours, and more, this versatile gift lets the recipient choose their own Wine Country adventure.

These folks don’t just have wine bottles sitting in a rack on the counter. They are the ones with temperature- and humidity-controlled home cellars, library wine selections from all over the world, and a wine decanter for every varietal. Treat them to one of these gifts for the true connoisseur.

  1. Classic Champagne Saber – WineCountry Shop, $129.99 | Add a little 19th century French showmanship to your wine service with this stainless steel Champagne saber with a polished wood handle.
  2. Jordan Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Vertical Gift Set – Jordan Winery, $486 | Explore how great wines can develop in bottle with this six-wine gift set of Jordan’s iconic cabernet sauvignon. Includes one bottle each from the 2010 – 2015 vintages packaged in a gorgeous wood box.
  3. Pio Cesare 2017 “Barolo Pio” – Wine.com, $85 | Not only is this elegant and age-worthy Barolo an Italian wine drinker’s dream, it is also a commemorative bottling in celebration of this iconic wine family’s 140-year anniversary.

Foodies are some of the best people to have in your life, and not just around Christmas or Hanukkah. Their movie nights include stovetop popped corn with hand-ground mixed spices and browned butter. They make a cheese board look better than an Instagram food stylist. And they’ve spent far too much money trying all the gourmet goodies from Goldbelly. This year, dazzle them with one of these culinary-themed holiday gifts (and hope they share).

  1. Martini & Caviar Gift Set – Hanson of Sonoma Distillery, $200 | Not only does this kit include every foodie’s favorite indulgence – caviar (30 grams of Thomas Keller’s Regiis Ova Caviar, to be precise) – it also includes a bottle of Hanson’s small-batch organic vodka, two engraved stemmed glasses, one jar of Castelvetrano Olives (for those dirty martinis), a mother-of-pearl caviar spoon, a caviar key, and a recipe card.
  2. Infused Oil Trio – Round Pond Estate, $109 | These gourmet olive oils – infused with garlic, rosemary, and lemon pepper – are perfect for drizzling as a final culinary touch, or for dipping a hunk of crusty bread along with your favorite bottle of Round Pond Estate wine.
  3. Churro Fiesta in a Box – San Diablo Artisan Churros, $59.99 | The kid in all of us will love this DIY kit, which comes with nine churro nozzles, San Diablo’s award-winning dry churro mix, cinnamon sugar topper, Dulce de Leche in a reusable filling bottle, and other fun extras.

Whether it’s hiking, camping, picnicking, or just plain adventuring, outdoorsy people love a good excuse to get some fresh air. Now they can do so while also enjoying a tipple or two in style with these great gifts for the outdoor enthusiast in your life.

  1. Landmark Vineyards Picnic Kit – Landmark Vineyards, $125 | A day outdoors doesn’t have to mean a day without wine! This thermoregulated canvas and willow tote holds a bottle of 2019 Overlook Chardonnay and Overlook Pinot Noir, a wine opener, a cheese knife, and a hardwood cutting board for the perfect picnic adventure.
  2. Copper Still Distillery Chocolate Flavored Whisky – Great American Craft Spirits, $39.99 | We can’t think of a better way to warm up after a day of hiking or camping than sitting around the fire sipping some of this decadent whisky infused with pure chocolate nibs from the Dominican Republic. Delicious on its own, or mixed in with a cup of hot cocoa for a double treat.
  3. Boxxle Premium Wine Preserver and Dispenser – Amazon, $98.99 | Liven up your campsite or backyard party with this stylish 3-liter wine dispenser, designed to hold your favorite bag-in-box wine selections for better preservation and proper countertop wine dispensing.

Whether you’re shopping for your mom, your dad, or – gasp! – the in-laws, finding the perfect gift for parents can be stressful. We’ve got you covered with these unique gift ideas for the parents who need a break from the kids, the mom who loves a killer martini, the future father-in-law you are desperate to impress, and all the grown-ups – kids or no kids – in between.

  1. The Perfect Night In – Abbot’s Passage, $120 | Invite your loved one to relax for some good old-fashioned fun with this cozy gift set, featuring handmade Wolfum wooden dominos, an engraved corkscrew, and a bottle of the 2018 Makeshift Red Field Blend.
  2. MotoDoffo 2017 Art Series Four Pack– Doffo Winery, $209 | Impress the wine and moto-enthusiast in your life with this collection of unique wines from Southern California’s Temecula Valley. Each label on this four-pack of wine features a vintage motorcycle hand-painted on a Post-It note by artist Doug Breuninger.
  3. Kastra Elion Greek Martini Gift Basket – Pompei Gift Baskets, $150 | This gift set includes a bottle of the first premium sipping vodka distilled from Greek olives, as well as Dolin Vermouth, Krinos olives, a shaker, stirrer, two martini glasses, and an elegant wooden tray for serving the perfect dirty martini.

Obviously the toughest to shop for, these people force us to really get our creative juices flowing. Lucky for you, we’ve done the juicing for you with these totally unique gift ideas for those impossible recipients.

  1. Covet Pass – Covet Pass, $150 | Turn your gift recipient into the ultimate Wine Country VIP with this first-of-its-kind pass that offers complimentary tastings at select California and Baja wineries, not to mention a ton of other hotel, travel, shopping, and experience perks.
  2. “Rarest of Them All” HāLo Collector Gift Set – Trefethen, $240 | Trefethen’s rarest and most beloved cabernet sauvignon, named after Hailey and Lorenzo Trefethen, elegantly packaged in a branded wooden box is sure to impress even the pickiest gift recipient.
  3. At-Home Wine Blending Kit – Rutherford Hill, $225 | Unleash someone’s inner winemaker with this hands-on wine blending kit, featuring a selection of small-format bottles of Rutherford Hill wines and all the tools to create, bottle, and label a totally custom wine blend.

Keep your friends close and your coworkers closer. This year, skip the paperweights and store-bought chocolates and win over your colleagues with these thoughtfully-curated drinks-themed gifts. Who knows – your boss may even reward you with a holiday bonus… for all your hard work, of course.

  1. Cocktail Smoker Top Smoke Stack Kit – The Crafty Cocktail, $84.99 | Give the gift of creative mixology with this kit that includes everything one needs to add the mysterious smoke topper to a craft cocktail, like any good bartender these days should do.
  2. VIADER 2018 “Black Label” – VIADER, $150 | If looking for a wine gift for your wine lover boss, this bottle delivers. You will win over anyone on or off the job with this opulent Napa Valley blend of estate-grown cabernet sauvignon, syrah, cabernet franc, and malbec.
  3. Vinyl Lovers Gift Set – Tank Garage Winery, $65 | Your hippest coworker will love this throwback gift set, featuring a bottle of Forever Baby Rosé, a vinyl album curated by the Tank Garage team and “inspired by youthful optimism,” and a vinyl record coaster set.

We’ve all got one of these in our lives: The type that loves to lounge, regularly practices self-care rituals, and would much rather spend the night in with a luxurious bottle of wine and a great book than head out on the town. Treat them with these extra cozy gifts this holiday season.

  1. Uma Stewart “go to cocktail” 11-oz Soy Wax Blend Candle – Uma Stewart, $65 | With 90 hours of burn time, this hand-poured candle offers heavy aromas of lime, ginger, and mint, calling to mind the drink that should be sipped alongside it.
  2. Gratsi Bàcaro Wine Glasses & Playing Cards – Gratsi, $25 | A Bàcaro is a casual Italian wine bar where people sip wine and snack, which is exactly what the homebody will want to do with this adorable set… especially if you gift them a box of Gratsi’s Old Country Red for their new house red as well.
  3. Sokol Blosser “Four a Big Celebration” Magnum Gift Set – Sokol Blosser, $250 | No one will have to leave the house with this four-pack of Magnums on-hand, including three vintages of the elegant Dundee Hills Pinot Noir and one of the Rosé (you know, for brunch the next day).

We’ve all found ourselves stuffing stockings with the usual wine stoppers, toys, and other pocket-sized gifts, only to realize we’ve got a long way to go before the stockings are filled. Top them up with these last-minute stocking stuffers and say “That’s a Wrap” to your holiday shopping.

  1. Napa Valley Wine Train Gift Card – Napa Valley Wine Train, any amount | Lifelong memories come in small packages. Passengers journey through vineyards while enjoying gourmet California cuisine and private label wines aboard this restored train made up of early 20th century Pullman cars.
  2. Library Box of Four Assorted Dark Chocolate Bars – Vine to Bar, $34.50 | These chocolate bars are the world’s first dark chocolate made from Chardonnay Marc – freshly-crushed grapes dried and milled – making them the perfect stocking-stuffer for the wine and chocolate-lover in your life.
  3. Purifyou Glass Water Bottle – Purifyou, from $17.97 | Water (and wine) just taste better in glass. You can carry both in these sleek, eco-friendly glass bottles with protective silicone sleeves. A portion of sales also goes toward promoting sustainable living across the planet so you can feel even better about your gift-giving.

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Choosing The Best Wine Glasses for Napa Wines https://www.napavalley.com/blog/best-wine-glasses-for-napa-wines/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/best-wine-glasses-for-napa-wines/#respond Thu, 10 Dec 2020 08:06:30 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=45378 No shame in drinking wine from a mug, but investing in proper glassware makes a big difference. Here are the best wine glasses for your favorite Napa wines.

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If you find yourself constantly reaching for Napa Valley wines with dinner, or just want to elevate your at-home wine drinking experience, you may want to consider investing in glassware designed to enhance your overall enjoyment of Napa wines.

While it’s not necessary to spend a fortune on the “proper” glassware for each wine varietal — and if we’re being honest, you can drink wine from whatever vessel you’d prefer, even if said vessel is a coffee mug or Solo cup — there is truth in that the shape of a glass can make a difference in the wine’s overall appeal. So, if you’re ready to take your wine glass game up a notch, here are tips for choosing the right wine glasses for your favorite Napa wines.

Why Does Shape Matter?

Certain wine glasses are specifically designed to improve the taste and character of a wine by directing aromatic compounds and taste profiles to hit different areas of the nose and tongue. Essentially what happens is, when you swirl and taste, the shape of a glass will affect the position of those flavor compounds as they reach your nose or mouth, making the wine come more alive, or not, depending on the vessel design. And no, we’re not just saying that, it’s actually been scientifically proven!

Now that you know that vessel shape matters, you may be wondering if stemless or stemmed wine glasses are preferable. While some argue that wine, especially white, should never be served in a stemless glass (your hand can warm up the wine too quickly), the stem versus stemless debate doesn’t matter as much as the shape and size of the bowl. So whether you opt for fancy stemmed wine glasses or modern, everyday stemless ones, the most important thing in choosing the best glassware is that your glass bowl has enough space above the wine to swirl and collect aromas in the glass.

Liquor.com
Photo Courtesy of Liquor.com

Best Wine Glasses for Cabernet Sauvignon

Chances are, if you like Napa wine, then you are probably a fan of cabernet, widely known as the King of Napa grapes. When it comes to wine glasses, a good fit for cabernet sauvignon and other bold red wines is the traditional “Bordeaux Glass,” which consists of a large, less rounded bowl with height, or the “Cabernet Glass,” which is broad but slightly smaller than the Bordeaux. Since Napa cabernets tend to be high in alcohol and tannin, that extra distance between you and the wine allows some of the typical ‘burn’ of the ethanol to dissolve before it reaches your nose, while a wider opening lets in more oxygen and directs the wine to the back of the mouth, softening the harshness of the tannins as you sip.

Try:

Riedel Extreme Cabernet Glass
Zalto Denk’Art Bordeaux Crystal Glass
Riedel O Wine Tumbler

Best Wine Glasses for Chardonnay

Though some white wines are served in smaller bowled glasses, which preserve delicate aromas and acidity, full-bodied and oaked whites like chardonnay are better suited to larger glasses. A “White Burgundy Glass,” which is similar in shape to a pinot noir glass, features a wide bowl and narrow rim, thereby concentrating the aromatics of the creamier, oaked whites in order to offset some of the richness of the fruit. Unoaked or younger chardonnays, on the other hand, tend to be served in traditional white wine glasses, known as the “Chardonnay Glass.” Its slightly narrower rim concentrates aromas more precisely, while allowing some of the more apparent acidity from stainless steel fermentation to shine through.

Try:

Riedel VINUM Chardonnay Glass
Eisch Superior Chardonnay Glass
Lenox Tuscany Classics Chardonnay Glass

Best Wine Glasses for Sauvignon Blanc

Unlike chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and other light-bodied, acidic white wines fare better in smaller bowled glasses. A narrow rim preserves aromas while a less broad bowl allows the wine to maintain a cooler temperature. Its shape also directs the wine to the center of your palate to avoid the unfavorable mouth puckering sensation that can be caused by high levels of acidity reaching the sides of your tongue.

Try:

Zalto Denk’Art White Wine Glass
Schott Zwiesel Tritan Crystal White Wine Glass
Spiegelau Grande White Wine Glasses

Best Wine Glasses for Zinfandel

Zinfandel from Napa Valley tends to be bold with ripe fruit notes and peppery, allspice characters. Medium-sized red wine glasses with a slightly larger rim work well for zinfandel by supporting the bouquet while softening some of the strong flavors and alcohol as it hits your tongue.

Try:

Riedel Wine Series Zinfandel Glass
Waterford Marquis Red Wine Glass
Gunmetal Black Stemless Wine Glass

Best Wine Glasses for Sparkling Wine

While coups are a stylish nod to a bygone era, they really aren’t the best vessels for sparkling wine as they allow in too much oxygen, thereby diminishing the wine’s effervescence — and sparkling wine just isn’t the same without those bubbles. While a Champagne flute is also synonymous with bubbly, its narrow opening (and standard high pour) make it hard to appreciate the wine’s aromas. For optimal drinking pleasure, kiss the flute and coupe goodbye and instead opt for a tulip glass or tapering wine glass, which both allow bubbles to form and aromas to unfold.

Try:

Zalto Denk’Art Champagne Glass
Riedel Vintage Champagne Glass
Schott Zwiesel Tritan Finesse Champagne Glass

Wall Street Journal
Photo Courtesy of the Wall Street Journal

A few things to consider:

Budget & Space

While we recommend investing in one to two styles that match your wine preferences, you can’t go wrong with one set of glassware that is considered “universal,” meaning it’s suitable to most varieties. Many stemware producers, including Zalto and Gabriel-Glas (our go-tos), are making universal glasses which are high in quality and generally work well with any type of wine. All-purpose glassware is not only space-saving (more room on the shelf!) and good for your budget (you’ll save on multiple sets of varietal-specific drinkware), they’re also a great option for those wine enthusiasts who simply don’t want to fuss over matching glass style with varietal.

Try:

Zalto Denk’Art Universal Glass
Gabriel-Glas StandArt Edition
Libbey All Purpose Wine Glass

Glass vs. Crystal

Crystal glasses offer an elegant, thin design, but they are usually much more expensive than glass. Hand washing is also strongly encouraged, so if you prefer barware that can go in the dishwasher then glass or dishwasher-safe crystal may be for you. Glass wine glasses are usually cost-effective and durable, but they are often not as well designed as their crystal counterparts when it comes to enhancing the flavors in wine. Simply put, choosing glass or crystal wine glasses really comes down to lifestyle. Super serious about your wine tasting? Then invest in better performing glassware. Too worried about breaking your precious Zalto glasses that it takes the fun out of drinking from them? Go cheaper. You can’t go wrong finding something that is right for you.

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Holiday Gift Guide 2020: 27 Best Gifts for Wine Lovers https://www.napavalley.com/blog/2020-holiday-gift-guide-for-wine-lovers/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/2020-holiday-gift-guide-for-wine-lovers/#respond Tue, 24 Nov 2020 19:36:49 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=45221 Holiday shopping is a breeze this year thanks to this fun-filled holiday gift guide featuring all the best gifts for wine lovers.

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While 2020 has been a wild ride, your holiday shopping doesn’t need to be. With wine lovers in mind, we have curated a list of our favorite wine-themed holiday gifts this year. The best part about our 2020 holiday gift guide? All gifts can be purchased online, so you can continue shopping from home in your pajamas. Just don’t let the other folks on your Zoom call know you’re multi-tasking.

Your mother taught you never to show up at a friend’s house without a gift for the host or hostess right? Especially during the holiday season. Say thank you for your hospitality with any of these festive items.

  1. Cherry Wood Wine Accessory Gift BoxWineCountry Shop, $54.95 | Nestle a favorite bottle in this gorgeous cherry wood box that carries all the fixings for proper wine service, including a corkscrew, bottle stopper, pourer, and drip ring.
  2. Landmark Vineyards Wine and Cheese Board Set Landmark Vineyards, $85 | This sleek bamboo cutting board comes with all the cheese essentials and a bottle of 2018 Overlook Pinot Noir.
  3. America’s Test Kitchen “How to Cocktail” BookAmerica’s Test Kitchen, $19.99 | Featuring cocktail creations, recipes for cocktail snacks, and stunning photography, this book is perfect for the budding mixologist.

This year, we’ve all become homebodies – including the kids. But some of us always were. Help create the perfect nest for people who were staying home before 2020 made it cool.

  1. Edna Fireside Collection Edna Valley Vineyard, $170 | Curl up on the couch with a cozy Edna Valley Vineyard blanket and a glass of one of the stunning pinot noirs included in this gift set.
  2. Personal Indoor Garden Rise Gardens, $279 | This indoor garden comes with smart features that make it easy to grow herbs and veggies year-round.
  3. Hanging Wine Bottle Lanterns Blue Ridge Mountain Gifts, $79.99 | This set of four glass wine bottle lanterns comes in five colors and creates whimsical lighting for either indoor or outdoor use.

We’ve all got one in our life: The friend who checks for a steak’s doneness with their finger; the amateur chef who can blind taste the cacao levels in a lineup of single-origin chocolate. Impress the foodie on your list with one of these thoughtful gifts for culinary buffs.

  1. Ultimate Expression of Caviar J Vineyards & Winery, $465 | This indulgent gift comes with three different expressions of J sparkling wine paired with three carefully selected jars of caviar.
  2. Priest Ranch Wines Chef Essentials Gift Set Priest Ranch, $84 | Style meets delicious with this gift set that includes a Priest Ranch denim apron, and a bottle of estate-grown olive oil.
  3. Cozymeal Online Cooking or Mixology Experience Cozymeal, $29 | Choose from a huge selection of socially-distanced in-person cooking and mixology experiences, or live and interactive online classes led by top experts.

These explorers are always planning their next adventure, whether it’s a backpacking excursion or a cozy staycation. These holiday gifts are perfect for the person on your list who is always on the road.

  1. Ben to Table “Taste the World” Subscription BoxBen to Table, $59.99/month, cancel anytime. | Each box offers a “taste” of a different global cuisine, featuring delicious ingredients, recipes, and pairing advice.
  2. Covet Pass Gift Card Covet Pass, $150 for annual membership | Like a Wine Country VIP card, this pass comes with a ton of perks, including free tastings at participating wineries, as well as discounts on transportation, shopping, and experiences.
  3. Napa Valley Framed Map WineCountry Shop, $75 | Showcasing over 400 wineries and 16 AVAs, this colorful map (designed in-house by the WineCountry team) is a stylish addition to any wine lover’s living room or office.

We love them, but wine snobs can sometimes be a judge-y bunch. Thankfully, these gift ideas for die-hard wine lovers are bound to get top scores.

  1. Engraved Champagne Saber Jordan Winery, $170 | This gorgeous tool is perfect for the wine enthusiast who has everything… including a bit of dramatic flair.
  2. Graham + Fisk’s Canned Wine Advent CalendarGraham + Fisk, $99.99 | Help someone count the days until Christmas the best way possible – with a can of wine each day or night.
  3. VORTEX Somm Aerating Wine Dispenser WineCountry Shop, $225 | This eye-catching aerator is not only a gorgeous tabletop conversation-starter, it also releases a wine’s bouquet as the liquid passes into the decanter below.

These are the folks on the list who give even the most seasoned holiday shopper anxiety. This year, wow your toughest crowd with something truly unique.

  1. Control Bottle Cocktail Mixer Control Bottle, $39.95 | This one-liter bottle delivers personalized mixed beverages with the ease of a single pour thanks to a patented dial that sets the strength of the cocktail.
  2. WineCountry Experiences Gift Card WineCountry Shop, any amount | Let giftees explore the best of Napa Valley and Sonoma, from new takes on tastings and food to outdoor adventures.
  3. Benchmark Wine Group “The Perfectionist” 3-Pack Benchmark Wine Group, $1,500 | This sommelier-approved gift pack of the best from California, Bordeaux, and Burgundy is sure to impress even the toughest wine critic.

Knowing the holiday gift you give is going toward a noble cause puts the “win” in “wine” this season.

  1. Dough For the James Beard Foundation Tasting SetWine.com, $69.99 | This set of quaffable wines benefit restaurant recovery, the promotion of equality in the kitchen, and sustainability efforts.
  2. WineCountry “Napa Forever” Retro Women’s T-Shirt WineCountry Shop, $25 | Profits from the sale of this stylish tee (designed in-house by our WineCountry team!) are donated to the Napa Valley Community Disaster Relief Fund, providing support to the community and workers affected by challenges such as the fires and Covid-19. Shipping deadline is Dec 7th to arrive before Christmas
  3. Ten Thousand Villages Share Cookbook Ten Thousand Villages, $40 | 100% of profits go to Women for Women International, an organization that reaches out to women in war torn areas, providing knowledge and vital resources to rebuild lives.

From homeschooling the kids, to major Zoom fatigue, 2020 has left us wanting to climb into bed with a wine bottle. Help your loved ones relax and refresh with these blissful at-home gift ideas.

  1. Unisex Perfume Rollerball Trio Gift Set Raw Spirit Fragrances, $75 | These warm woodsy scents are rich and complex like a fine wine. Sustainably sourced and cruelty-free, they smell good and do good.
  2. Domaine Carneros “Blushing Bubbles” Gift Set Domaine Carneros, $98 | This gift set, including a bottle of 2016 Brut Rosé, rose-scented body lotion, bath fizz, and a candle, is perfect for someone who deserves a little self-care this season.
  3. Merlot Skin Care Moisturizing Kit Amazon, $39 | Treat your favorite wine-loving friend to a bit of winter hydration with this set of grape-derived skincare products.

This year, instead of stuffing the stockings with oranges and new socks, liven them up with this selection of our favorite last-minute gifts.

  1. Buddy CorkscrewRover, $15.99 | Dog lovers will delight in this adorable stainless-steel corkscrew, featuring a bottle opener “mouth” and serrated foil cutter “tail.”
  2. G.H. Mumm “Cloupe” Wine Glasses G.H. Mumm, $30, set of four | This innovative glassware from G.H. Mumm aims to modernize and enhance the Champagne drinking experience.
  3. WineGrasp Wine Glass Holder WineGrasp, $19.99 | This lightweight gadget allows wine lovers to go hands-free by clipping on to all types of surfaces and holding wine glasses with ease.

Conclusion

Need more holiday gifting inspiration? View our WineCountry Experiential Gift Guide for a list of fun, non-traditional ways to wow your friends and family this holiday season.

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Wine Country-Inspired Mother’s Day Gifts She’ll Love https://www.napavalley.com/blog/mothers-day-gift-ideas/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/mothers-day-gift-ideas/#respond Thu, 30 Apr 2020 20:17:02 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=43065 Since you can’t celebrate Mother’s Day with mom in Wine Country, why not bring Wine Country to her? We’ve rounded up six unique gifts to give her this year.

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Normally, we’d say the perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day with mom is to spend time together in Wine Country. However, since the shelter-in-place mandate is still ongoing, we’re getting creative with our gift giving this year. Here are six unique Wine Country-inspired Mother’s Day gift ideas to help you make mom feel extra special this May – yes, even while staying at home.

A Gift Certificate From Four Sisters Inns

While she may not be able to take that Wine Country getaway just yet, why not give mom something to look forward to? With the Keep Dreaming Gift Certificate from Four Sisters Inns, any gift certificate of $200 – $300+ purchased before May 31, 2020 will include a few extra perks to enjoy at one of their luxurious properties, such as Gaige House + Ryokan or Kenwood Inn and Spa in Sonoma Valley, and Lavender, A Four Sisters Inn or Milliken Creek Inn in Napa Valley.

For gift cards in the amount of $300+, the recipient will receive a complimentary upgrade, breakfast-in-bed every morning, and a copy of the Four Sisters Inns’ exclusive cookbook. Gift certificates in the amount of $200+ include a complimentary bottle of wine and a $50 spa credit to use during a stay (to be redeemed at select properties). The best part? These gift certificates are available in any amount, are fully transferable to any Four Sisters Inn, and never expire. We think it’s a great way to show mom you care, while allowing her some time for a little self-care. Or maybe you make it a mother-daughter getaway to enjoy together!

Kenwood Inn and Spa
Photo Courtesy of Kenwood Inn and Spa

Glassware + Accessories For Sipping-In-Place

Now that we’re spending so much time inside, it might be time to upgrade mom’s glassware or wine accessories so she can sip in style from the comfort of her home. Our WineCountry Shop features a unique assortment of one-of-a-kind gifts your mom will adore, including Copper Rim Crystal Champagne Coupes, Rose Crystal Champagne Flutes, and even Faceted Crystal Tumblers, for those moms who prefer whiskey over wine. We’ve also got a great selection of wine accessories and many other lifestyle products in our Shop for your mom, wife, mother-in-law, or the other special mom-figure in your life.

Bubbles From Mumm Napa

There’s nothing more celebratory than a bottle of bubbly and what’s more worthy of celebrating than mom? Naturally, moms and sparkling wine go hand-in-hand. Through May 10, Mumm Napa is offering a special on sparkling wine for Mother’s Day: 15% off on purchases of Mumm Brut Rosé, Cuvée M Red, or Brut Reserve Rosé. Whether for your loving mom, a new mom you want to congratulate, or your sister who wants to become a mom, they’re all deserving of a little more bubbly in their life and we think sparkling wine from Napa Valley makes the perfect gift.

Mumm Napa
Photo Courtesy of Mumm Napa

Wine, Olive Oil + A Virtual Cooking Class

You may not be able to cook up a feast for your mother this year, but you can still cook “together” during a virtual cooking experience live from Wine Country. On Friday, May 8 at 4 pm PST, Round Pond Winery in Napa Valley will host a Virtual Mother’s Day Brunch Cooking Class. During this free class, you’ll learn to make a delectable rolled omelet with goat cheese, microgreens, and Round Pond’s Spanish olive oil (a great match with their Rutherford Sauvignon Blanc), as well as smoked salmon and avocado toast with pickled onion, arugula, Meyer lemon oil, and Trout Roe on grilled levain bread (paired with Round Pond’s Proprietary White Blend). Completing the brunch is a steak and eggs hash with garden herb chimichurri (an ideal pairing with the Rutherford Cabernet). Treat mom to the wines in advance so she can sip while she cooks, and be sure to add some of Round Pond’s estate olive oil, then promise you’ll recreate this feast for her another time. It’s a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift that keeps on giving!

Round Pond Winery
Photo Courtesy of Round Pond Winery

DISH Membership with The CIA

Speaking of cooking, if your mother is a bonafide foodie looking to hone her chef skills, then you may want to consider signing her up for a DISH Membership at the Culinary Institute of America. As a DISH member, she’ll get exclusive access to recipes, cooking videos, live demonstrations, and insider tips from the CIA’s chefs and culinary heroes, such as Thomas Keller and Julia Child. She’ll also be able to check out The CIA’s e-book library of cookbooks and connect and share recipes with others in the DISH food community.

Unsplash | Kristina Tripkovic
Photo Courtesy of Unsplash | Kristina Tripkovic

Rosé Gift Set from Fairwinds Estate

Located in Calistoga in Napa Valley, Fairwinds Estate has made a name for itself as a producer of elegant cabernet sauvignon. However refined, we realize that drinking bold cabernet wine doesn’t exactly scream “springtime.” If your mom normally reaches for lighter wines this time of year, then she may love Fairwinds Estate’s vibrant rosé, particularly their Rosé Gift Set. Included are three bottles of 2018 Fairwinds Rosé of Cabernet, plus a complimentary wood handle wine opener and $1 shipping — all for $78. So forget the flower bouquet or heart-shaped chocolates and spring for rosé instead!

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Wine Country-Inspired Holiday Gift Guide 2019 https://www.napavalley.com/blog/2019-holiday-gift-guide/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/2019-holiday-gift-guide/#respond Wed, 27 Nov 2019 18:20:40 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=40319 This holiday season, get inspired by the Wine Country life. Our curated gift guide features gifts for everyone on your list, from jetsetters to homebodies.

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Everyone’s favorite season is back, ushering in festive gatherings, holiday cheer, and plenty of reasons to eat, drink, and be merry. Yet, despite the joyful spirit of the season, we can bet there’s one major holiday to-do looming overhead — the dreaded holiday shopping list.

Forget the busy malls and shopping centers this year, because we’re making it easier than ever to check everyone off your list. This Wine Country-inspired gift guide is filled to the brim with unique experiences, must-have wine gadgets, and entertaining essentials they’ll love, so you can spend more time FA-LA-LA-ing and less time fighting crowds during the most wonderful time of the year.

Gifts for the Adventurer

Whether they’re climbing a mountain or sailing to far off locales, these thrill-seeking adventurers are always up for anything. Keep their spirits bright with on-the-go goods and experiences that fuel their adrenaline-filled lifestyles.

  1. Champagne Saber – WineCountry Shop, $129.00
  2. ATV Excursion & Wine Pairing Lunch (available seasonally) – WineCountry Experiences, $200
  3. Two-Bottle Wine Tote – WineCountry Shop, $54.95
Gifts for the Foodie

Never one to pass on an opportunity to savor a good meal, food lovers live for the hottest reservations and latest culinary trends. Since the way to their heart is through their stomachs, these foodie-approved holiday gifts are sure to please even the most discerning palates.

  1. Le Petit Chef 3D Dining Experience – WineCountry Experiences, $140
  2. Marble & Acacia Wood Cheese Board – WineCountry Shop, $54.95
  3. Round Pond Infused Olive Oil Trio – Round Pond Winery, $99
Gifts for the Trendsetter

Always jetting off to a new place and yearning for those Instagrammable travel moments, the jetsetter is your wanderlust-crazed friend who knows how to live the good life on the go. Opt for something that can actually keep up with his or her nomadic lifestyle.

  1. Covet Pass Wine Tasting Gift Card – Covet Pass, $150 
  2. Moscow Mule Carry-on Cocktail Kit (set of two) – WineCountry Shop, $48
  3. Rose Gold Bracelet Flask – WineCountry Shop, $45.95
Gifts for the Homebody

You can find the homebody getting cozy with a glass of red wine next to the fire or avoiding crowded bars in favor of a proper martini at home. Add to their comfort and convenience with an array of Wine Country-inspired staples they can enjoy in their own abode.

  1. Marble & Acacia Coaster Set – WineCountry Shop, $42.95
  2. Pine Ridge “Classic Napa Valley” Gift Set – Pine Ridge Vineyards, $125
  3. Gold Rimmed Crystal Martini Glasses (set of two) – WineCountry Shop, $29.95
Gifts for the Entertainer

Always ready to pop some bubbly or impress their guests with a new party trick, the entertainer is the ultimate host for parties big or small. Giving them something to improve their hosting skills is a no brainer, but equally thoughtful is the gift of an experience that’s sure to entertain them for a change.

  1. Champagne 3-piece Gift Set – WineCountry Shop, $90 
  2. Aerating Wine Dispenser – WineCountry Shop, $199
  3. Taming the Lion Wine Blending Experience – WineCountry Experiences, $175
Gifts for the Stylista

This is the friend/sister/aunt who lives to be trè chic in all facets of life, from their on-trend clothing to their design-savvy living spaces — even their dog has been known to make a fashion statement. Only the best will do for the stylista, and our top picks are sure to fit their highly curated lifestyles.

  1. Faceted Crystal Tumblers (set of two) – WineCountry Shop, $29.95
  2. Ombre Cotton Rope & Leather Dog Collar – WineCountry Shop, $56
  3. JCB “Go For The Gold” Gala Champagne – JCB Collection, $105 
Gifts for the Picky & Particular

Maybe these folks already have everything they could possibly need, or perhaps they’re known for returning or regifting during the holidays. This year, try for a memorable gift they can’t refuse. We bet that any of these experience-driven gifts are ones they’ll be eager to unwrap and put to good use.

  1. WineCountry Experience Gift Card – WineCountry Experiences, Prices Vary
  2. Covet Pass Wine Tasting Gift Card – Covet Pass, $150 
  3. Weekend in Wine Country at Carneros Resort and Spa (with $100 spa credit & bottle of wine at check-in) – WineCountry Perks, Prices Vary

Conclusion

To find more gift giving inspiration for everyone on your list, visit Napa Valley’s sister sites: Covet Pass, WineCountry Shop, and WineCountry Experiences.

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365 Days of Wine Tasting with Covet Pass https://www.napavalley.com/blog/covet-pass/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/covet-pass/#respond Thu, 21 Nov 2019 16:49:35 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=40134 Live the Wine Country lifestyle all year long with Covet Pass, a unique wine tasting pass that offers complimentary tastings throughout Napa and Sonoma.

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We’ve all heard about those wine tasting passes that get you 2-for-1 tastings or that use an app to track your visits. Those are great, but they have their limitations. Covet Pass is the first-of-its-kind wine pass that gets you complimentary tastings at some of Northern California’s best wineries.

But it doesn’t stop there. Covet Pass was created for anyone looking to experience the Wine Country lifestyle any time of year — from winery visits to hotel stays — and all for an incredible value.

Clif Family
Rise and Wine Tasting. Photo Courtesy of Clif Family

Covet Pass

Covet Pass is a unique tasting pass that offers one complimentary tasting at each of the Napa Valley and Sonoma County wineries in the Covet Pass winery network. Not only does it pay for itself after experiencing just a few wineries, but you’ll also receive endless perks, including deals on lodging, transportation, shopping, and curated experiences.

The best part? From the date of purchase, you have 365 days to redeem all your complimentary tastings at each winery. So, whether you want to sip during spring’s bud break, enjoy an al fresco tasting in the summer, visit during the buzz of harvest season, or unwind with a red wine in the winter, Covet Pass makes it easy to discover Wine Country on your own terms.

While Covet Pass has recently launched in Napa and Sonoma, soon it will be expanding to include other regions throughout California and the West Coast. So when you purchase your Covet Pass, you’ll have your choice of wine regions to explore.

Picnic at Benziger in Sonoma,
Picnic at Benziger in Sonoma, Photo Courtesy of Benziger Family Winery | Carly Burns

The Details

Covet Pass costs just $150 per person, offering unprecedented value and the flexibility of having a full year in which to redeem each tasting at participating wineries. It also includes access to special perks, such as a $50 transportation credit, 15% off all housewares and gifts at the WineCountry Shop, and a $20 credit towards a one-of-a-kind WineCountry Experience, from custom wine blending to ATV excursions, horseback rides to picnics.

Wine Country Covet Pass

Holiday Gifting

Let us help you streamline your holiday shopping list this year, as Covet Pass makes for an ideal gift for everyone on your list. Offered in a beautifully designed gift box, each Covet Pass gift includes a gift card, Covet Pass activation instructions, and a personalized note of your choice.

The more you buy, the more you save:

$150 for 1 – 3 Covet Passes

$125 for 4 – 10 Covet Passes

$100 for 11+ Covet Passes

Get your friends/employees/in-laws something they can enjoy long after the holiday decorations are put away — with Covet Pass, they’ll have 365 days to sip, savor, and create lasting memories in Wine Country.

Learn More

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2018 Napa-Inspired Holiday Gift Guide https://www.napavalley.com/blog/2018-napa-valley-holiday-gift-guide/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/2018-napa-valley-holiday-gift-guide/#respond Wed, 28 Nov 2018 22:55:09 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=34695 We're giving you a reason to skip the mall this season with our essential WineCountry holiday gift guide, filled to the brim with unique experiences and presents for everyone on your list.

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It’s that time of year. When we deck the halls and make merry, and days are filled with festive gatherings and holiday shopping – and we hope a great deal of delicious wine. Time spent with friends and family is at the top of the list for seasonal plans, but getting perfect gifts for those you love is probably a close second.

May we suggest marking off your must-shop list with a visit to WineCountry.com? NapaValley.com’s sister site offers a duo of options fit for many with WineCountry Shop and WineCountry Experiences, not a bah humbug in sight. Filled to the brim with uncommon experiences and perfect presents, we’ve crafted an essential guide for getting the goods for one and all.

Grab a bottle of wine, pour a glass, and click through for one-stop holiday shopping that makes it so easy to say, “Cheers!”

2018 Holiday Gift Guide

Create and curate a holiday masterpiece.

  1. Faceted Crystal Tumblers

    WineCountry Shop, $37.95

  2. Chardonnay and Croquet with Sonoma Cutrer

    WineCountry Experiences, $100

2018 Holiday Gift Guide

On the go, but with all the right goods.

  1. Skipstone Golf + Wine Lunch

    WineCountry Experiences, $600

  2. Acacia Wood Beer Caddy

    WineCountry Shop, $49.95

2018 Holiday Gift Guide

Playful presents filled with amusement.

  1. Ceramic Squirrel Wine Stopper

    WineCountry Shop, $13.99

  2. Taste, Paddle, and Pedal Sonoma Tour

    WineCountry Experiences, $164

2018 Holiday Gift Guide

The nicest way to get packing and hit the road right.

  1. Wine Adventure Vacation in Sonoma

    WineCountry Experiences, $1,200

  2. 2-Bottle Wine Tote in Burgundy and Grey

    WineCountry Shop, $54.95

2018 Holiday Gift Guide

Tabletop pop and inspiration for future dinner parties.

  1. Marble & Acacia Wood Cheese Board

    WineCountry Shop, $54.95

  2. Gourmet Napa Food & Wine Tour

    WineCountry Experiences, $195

2018 Holiday Gift Guide

Sharpen skills and gift tools for happy eating.

  1. Taste of Point Reyes Culinary Tour

    WineCountry Experiences, $195

  2. Champagne Twister Opener

    WineCountry Shop, $36

2018 Holiday Gift Guide

Open bottles between the vines.

  1. ATV Excursion & Wine Pairing Lunch with Hess Collection

    WineCountry Experiences, $200

  2. Anything from WineCountry Shop

    WineCountry Shop, Price Varies

Conclusion

Explore the many out-of-the-ordinary gifts and memorable excursions with WineCountry Shop and WineCountry Experiences, and you’re sure to put a smile on everyone’s face this holiday season.

For even more essential gifts, be sure to check out our 2018 WineCountry Holiday Gift Guide filled with all the best presents for the special folks in your life.

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