For many people when it comes to gift-giving it’s not simply a matter of something thoughtful or nice.  These days a lot of folks strive to present something unique, as stylish as it is functional, eco-friendly, and crafted by an artisan.  It can be a challenge to meet all those requirements and still remain within a reasonable budget. The answer is melted wine bottle gifts.

Wine Gift Ideas for Artistic People

We are delighted to offer these crafted pieces made from discarded glass bottles that are perfect for just about any gifting occasion; holidays, housewarmings, weddings,  just to name a few.

The concept is simple, any bottle can be melted into a functional serving tray or plate with the label reattached on the bottom to make safe for food.

We’ve partnered with a family owned company who uses recycled wine bottles (as well as beer and liquor bottles) and create fantastic kitchen accessories from them.

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The gift-giving season looms, leaving many of us to scramble for creative and unique ideas. Whether you’re struggling to think of something special for a family member or concerned about what’s appropriate for a colleague or client there is a perfect solution for those that are wine lovers. We offer a spectacular array of cool wine gifts that will leave your recipient both appreciative and impressed at your thoughtfulness.

Looking for a Unique Gift?

Many wine themed gifts can be personalized with a message or simply the name of the person in mind, adding that special touch to show how much they mean to you. One of our consistent and best regarded pieces is our Raised Barrel Top Lazy Susan. This clever wooden serving tray is available in a range of colors that will fit any kitchen scheme. You can customize your order to imprint a message or simply their name. The Barrel Top Lazy Susan Turntable is a smart gift in that it’s functional and just a really cool wine gift.

For those who enjoy hosting and serving wine a wonderful gift idea is the Sommelier Service Wine Decanter by Ravenscroft Crystal. This elegant crystal piece can be inscribed with initials or a thoughtful message. This stunning personalized decanter is not only impressive but it’s hand-crafted and lead free.  Whiskey lovers are monogramming this highly sought out Whiskey Decanter. It’s diamond cuts are luxurious!

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So we all know the basic guidelines: a nice steak deserves a big Cabernet Sauvignon, fish goes nicely with Sauvignon Blanc, and pork and Chardonnay can compliment each other nicely. But what about turkey and dressing and all other sumptuous delights of a Thanksgiving feast?

Taking the Mystery Out of Thanksgiving Wine Choices

Wine with Mashed Potatoes? No Problem!

It goes without saying, but a nice way to start off any special dinner is with something bubbly. The sky’s the limit here but you can’t go wrong with a Brut Champagne or a Cava from Spain.

With the main meal, we’ve found a nice dry or slightly sweet white works well with most Thanksgiving repasts. Our choice: a Riesling or Gewurztraminer. Germany and the Alsace region of France are famous for both of these varietals but Washington State and other places also produce outstanding examples.

Interpreting German wine labels is an article topic in itself but the level of sweetness can be determined if you know which words to look for. If you see the word Kabinett, that indicates a wine that is crisp and semi-sweet. If you want something a bit sweeter, the next level is designated Spätlese.

Other white wine options that can work well with turkey are Pinot Grigio or Viognier. The clean and crisp flavors usually associated with these grapes can be a nice compliment to dishes commonly found on a holiday table.

If you’re set on drinking red, pick one that is light and fruity so you don’t overpower the food. Beaujolais and Syrah are possible options. If you’re serving ham as part of your meal, we think you’ll find that Pinot Noir pairs well.

Whatever your choice of wine with the main meal, a wine aerator can really help bring out flavors when serving wine at the table.

When you get to the pumpkin pie part of the meal, you can’t go wrong with port (we’d choose tawny). Or, perhaps, try French Sauternes for a perfect way to wrap up your dinner. If you really want to impress your guests with your worldly wine knowledge, look for a bottle of Pedro Ximénez from Spain. Exotic and intensely sweet, it is a dessert all in itself.

Of course these recommendations are just that. The most important thing is always to drink what you enjoy!

P.S. If the dinner is not at your house, don’t forget a gift for your host or hostess. Combine something fun like this trivet  or wine towel with a bottle of wine. But then nothing says Thanksgiving like turkey stemware coasters!