Gifts for the Wine Lover: Gadgets and Gizmos
So what if that special wine lover in your life is not into books or art? No problem! This list is full of great items that every wine drinker should collect during their lifetime (or all at once if necessary)! When it comes to wine accessories for me, I prefer basic functionality over the latest technology. Affordable and functional beats high-tech any day - so check out my suggestions below!
1. Wine Opener/Corckscrew. Every wine drinker needs a decent wine opener, period. One of my personal favorites is the Metrokane Vertical Lever style opener. It is by far the easiest opener I have ever used and almost 2 years in it still works great. However, after working in a few tasting rooms, I have come to appreciate the traditional hinged corkscrew. You can buy them at any liquor store for around $3 and they work just fine.
2. Wine Saver. Now, I haven't had much experience with these wine savers because I don't really understand the concept of leftover wine... But if you really wanted to open that Cabernet on a Tuesday night and still want to be functional at work the next day - you should look for a wine saver. Vacu Vin is one of my favorites because it is simple to use and affordable. Jury is still out on whether it really helps save the wine for an extended period of time, but it definitely helps for a few days.
3. Decanter. If you enjoy reds, you really should look into buying a decanter. Traditionally, decanters were used to separate the wine from the small amount of sediment that collects at the bottom of the bottle. But more commonly today, they are used to help aerate the wine (or let it "breathe"). In all fairness, some wine experts criticize aeration and don't think it actually helps the wine - so I will leave that up to you. I like decanters because they and to the table decor. My main recommendation, be sure to buy one that is easy to clean.
4. Wine Aerator. Moving along to something that is more impulsive than essential - aerators. I have one, have yet to use it, but I think it is an interesting idea. I have the Vinturi aerator, which is interesting because you can use it with a decanter or straight to the glass.
5. Whiskey Stones. I know, I know, this has nothing to do with wine. But, there are tons of fun accessories out there for beverages other than wine. I actually prefer whiskey on the rocks, but if you (or that whiskey lover in your life) likes their liquor straight up - whiskey stones are great for cooling down without watering down the drink. If you want to cool down your wine in a fun way (or I usually do this for sangria) freeze grapes. They have the same effect of whiskey stones, but are edible at the end!
6. Drink Charms. Do you have that one family member who always loses their glass at parties or family gatherings and ends up stealing everyone else's? Then you definitely need to get them some wine charms. There are so many wine charms available these days - both online and in your favorite store on main street. Check out these mustache drink markers - hilariously cute!
7. Wine Refrigerator. For that serious wine enthusiast in your life, you may consider a wine refrigerator. There are thousands of models out there - but I prefer the smaller models (holding approximately 30 bottles) with one temperature setting. This is mostly because I don't really believe in collecting wine to age for decades, but you may have a special bottle or two that you what to hold one for a view years.
8. Wine Apps (iPhone). Now if you are looking to save money or pick up something fun for yourself - check out my favorite wine apps!
- First, for tips on pairing wine with food, occasions, etc, check out Hello Vino. It's a simple app that is great when you head to the wine store (or restaurant) without a specific plan and need a quick idea. Plus it's free!
- Second, Drync Wine Pro. This is my favorite app by far, it's a great way to keep track of wines you drink or purchase with it's cellar tracking feature. But, it also allows you to look up wines by taking a picture of the label (so cool!). It costs $4.99, but its totally worth it if you like to keep track of wines you tasted.
- Third, Snooth Wine Pro. It's like a virtual cellar and facebook combined. Plus it's free!
- Two new apps I am looking into: Wine Events and Wine Wherever. Both help put you in touch with local wine events - definitely a fun idea
If you have any favorite wine gadgets, gizmos or apps that I did not give a shout out to, leave a comment!
Happy Holidays and Cheers!