Despite economic woes, “Black Friday” specials are luring customers to spend, and more than ever, retailers are hoping that this holiday season will pull them out of the red. However, it would be wise for turkey-stuffed shoppers to watch their wallet-waistlines. To help shoppers pick the right thoughtful gift for the various types of wine lovers on their list, here are some wine and accessory gift ideas for $25 or less: For the connoisseur who has everything, including discriminating taste:Choose a wine from the 2009 Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list. Coming in at number 29 and 57, the 2007 Chalone Chardonnay ($25) and Vina Santa Rita Cabernet Sauvignon ($20) are both classics. Connoisseur accessory: Soiree bottle-top decanter ($20)For the enthusiast who is open to trying new things:Go for unique varietals that offer lots of flavor such as Jessie’s Grove Carignane ($20) or Huber Ober Steigen Gruner Veltliner ($17)Enthusiast accessory: Lolita Wine Glass ($25)For the old-world lover who is starting to get bored by rules:Stomp off to boot of Italy for wine from Puglia. The Tormaresca Chardonnay ($12) and the Neprica red blend ($12) bring together old-world tradition with new-world innovation.Old-world accessory: Stainless steel wine server gift set ($22)For the new-world drinker who is starting to suffer from palate burn-out:Find some classic blends such as Vina von Siebenthal Parcela 7 red blend ($21) or d’Arenberg The Hermit Crab Viognier and Marsanne ($18).New-world accessory: Rapid ice wine cooler ($14)For the novice who is exploring his or her tastes:Start with single varietals that represent their place of origin. Both Mi Terruno Reserve Malbec ($16) and Wild Rock ‘Elevation’ Sauvignon Blanc ($17) express their regional flare.Novice accessory: Oster Electric Wine-Bottle Opener ($20)For the hostess who loves to entertain:Choose a dry bubbly such as Poema Cava Brut ($14). Hostess accessory: Blitzen bottle stopper ($20)Most wines are available at wine-centric shops. Click here for of reputable wine stores in Rhode Island. Be sure to ask the store’s wine consultants about their top picks.See Amazon for great deals on wine accessories and Wine Enthusiast for more gift giving ideas.Happy holidays!If you found this information useful and would like to receive the Providence Wine Examiner articles via email, hit the subscribe icon at the top of the page.
