Handpicked Product Recommendations | Wine Enthusiast https://www.wineenthusiast.com/category/handpicked/ Wine Enthusiast Magazine Tue, 19 Mar 2024 15:43:16 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.4 The Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Wine Lovers https://www.wineenthusiast.com/shop/valentines-day-gifts-for-wine-lovers/ Fri, 26 Jan 2024 22:31:15 +0000 https://www.wineenthusiast.com/2023/02/08/valentines-day-gifts-for-wine-lovers/ These must-have Valentine's Day gifts for wine lovers are perfect for setting the mood on the most romantic day of the year. [...]

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We here at Wine Enthusiast love to buy bottles of wine as gifts. It’s not only the perfect accompaniment to moodily-lit dinners for two or toasts in celebration of a major life event (engagement, wedding, anniversary, you name it). A well-chosen bottle can also honor important cultural traditions and holidays—like Valentine’s Day.

Of course, the actual wine is only one component of a superlative wine-drinking experience, Valentine’s Day edition. There are many other things to consider, from the vessel in which the wine is served (something sleek and sexy, perhaps?) to gadgets and tools that enhance the flavor of that wine (because you want to look good opening that bottle). For those who want to make this year the most romantic Valentine’s Day ever, a wine-adjacent gift is sure to do the trick. From stunning decanters and professional-approved glasses to wine-themed attire, the items on the list below are ideal for showing that special someone how much you care.

Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Wine Lovers


Wine Enthusiast Art Series Flame Decanter

Nothing quite brings the drama like an aerating decanter. This handblown one, with its captivating curves and long spout, turns the decanting process into a beautiful performance. The decanter’s twists and turns ensure that every sip that reaches your love’s lips has reached its full flavorful potential.

$99 Wine Enthusiast

Recanter Wine Breather Decanter

This unique piece of equipment serves dual purposes—it both decants and “rebottles” wine. It’s designed with an elegant wide-flared bottom for superb aeration and features a stainless-steel and silicone stopper that allows users to flip and secure the decanter onto the bottle, so the wine pours back in without any spillage.

$49.95 Wine Enthusiast

WE x L’Atelier du Vin Wine Opener

A good corkscrew is a must, but this one takes the basic tool to a luxurious new level. It boasts an engineered vertical-lever design and ergonomic handle that enables smooth cork extractions. It also boasts a beautiful high gloss black-coated finish and solid walnut handle—which can be personalized for added bonus points.  

$170-$190 Wine Enthusiast

L’Atelier du Vin Bubbles Celebration Champagne Flutes:

These individually hand-blown and numbered collector’s glasses will make sipping Champagne with your sweetie even sweeter. The artist-designed masterpieces are not only visually impressive, but the reinterpreted tulip shape is ideal for letting the fine bubbles of your favorite sparkler shine.

$220 Wine Enthusiast

Kywie camel suede bottle chiller (for romantic dates by the fire )

Keep your wine bottle cold as you and your lover cozy up near a fire with this handmade sheepskin bottle chiller. Its soft suede exterior and fleece lining look great and can keep pre-chilled bottles for hours.

$69.99-$79.99 Wine Enthusiast

“Time to Wine Down” Plush Robe/Socks Set

It’s “Time to Wine Down” with your lover when they don this plush robe that features a cozy shawl collar, patch pockets and a tie-belt. It comes with a pair of soft ribbed socks with “Wine Time” printed on the sole—the perfect outfit for kicking back at home with a glass in hand.

$29.99 Wine Enthusiast

“Love from Napa” Jewelry Gift Set

Does your favorite wine lover also love Napa Valley? Show them you’ve been paying attention with this wine country-inspired gift set. It features a Honeycomb Ring and Hexagon Cuff Bracelet made with reclaimed wine barrels used to make Napa Valley Cabernet.

$85 Wine Enthusiast

Ruffoni Copper Ultimate Lovebirds Pan

This copper pot can do just about everything—simmer, braise, roast, bake—while looking great throughout every step of the process and serving as a symbol of deep affection for the person receiving it as a gift. Its solid bronze, silver-plated and lovebird-shaped finial is the ultimate emblem of love.

$720 Wine Enthusiast

Zalto Sweet Wine Glass

What could be sweeter than sharing some sweet wine with your sweetie? Drinking it from this sweet wine glass. This handcrafted vessel was specially designed to accentuate the acidity in dessert wines.

$76 Wine Enthusiast

Striped Canvas and Leather 6-Bottle Weekender Wine Bag with Bottom Storage Compartment

Prepare to take off with your S.O.—wine in tow—with this roomy weekender. It boasts plenty of room for personal belongings as well as up to six bottles of wine with a removable padded interior to keep everything secure and safe from potential spillage.

$119 Wine Enthusiast

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The Best Lunar New Year Drink Gifts, According to Drink Pros https://www.wineenthusiast.com/handpicked/lunar-new-year-gifts/ Tue, 23 Jan 2024 21:54:22 +0000 https://www.wineenthusiast.com/?p=165573 We surveyed top wine and spirits insiders to find the most delicious, unique and memorable gifts for the Year of the Dragon. [...]

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It’s hard to explain how important gifts are across various Asian cultures. No guest would ever dare to cross the threshold of an Asian home on a holiday without a platter of food or a bottle of something strong, sweet or bubbly peeking out of an extravagant gold bag.

Gifts of spirits play prominently in my memories of Lunar New Year. On the first day of Seollal, or Korean Lunar New Year, I would sneak into the kitchen and inhale the aromas of tall piles of just-fried golden mandu dumplings, sesame-scented platters of japchae with spinach and carrot and giant bowls of steaming rice cake soup flecked with seaweed. Though the food varied every year, there was one constant at our Lunar New Year—the strong scent of Johnnie Walker Black wafting from glass tumblers on a low rosewood table.

Although Seollal is traditionally a family holiday, my immigrant parents were separated from their extended families, so they celebrated it with the only family they had: a tight-knit group of friends from their Korean church who loved to drink. Every Sunday, my parents’ social circle of doctors, professors and restaurant owners sat in their church pews, prim and pious, nodding their heads at the fiery preacher’s sermon reminding us Jesus died for our sins. Come 7 p.m., though, ensconced in the sanctuary of our home, they belted out Johnny Cash’s “Personal Jesus” on our karaoke machine and ate and drank like heathens, fêting their successes and drowning their failures over food and drink. As soon as my mom filled the soju glasses, there wasn’t a dry mouth in the house.

I found these celebrations amusing, bewildering and especially tiresome when I had school the next day. After these 20-odd friends drained a few bottles of Johnnie Walker and even more of Chamisul soju, they’d throw their arms around one another, singing “Arirang” and calling to bring out the “jechigi,” the Hacky Sack-like Lunar New Year kids’ game. Inevitably, eyes would water for a homeland that was changing as rapidly as flowing water. At that age, I couldn’t presage that those drinks would someday serve as crucial bridges between me and my ancient homeland in celebrating Lunar New Year—that tasting makgeolli, a beverage my farming ancestors brewed, just felt and tasted right.

While the specifics on Lunar New Year celebrations differ from family to family—admittedly, many are far more chaste than my parents’—it is customary to show up to the festivities with a gift. A special bottle of spirits or wine often does the trick (especially if paired with a cash-filled red envelope, mooncakes or a large basket packed with oranges and pomegranates).

To determine what bottles make for the best Lunar New Year gifts, we tapped a range of industry pros, so you’ll be ready to impress come February 10. From AAPI-owned brands to classics—yes, Johnnie Walker included—here’s what beverage and hospitality insiders suggest.

Kikori Rice Whiskey

Many Asian households stock several bottles of decent whiskey, but only a select few hold fine Japanese whiskies like Kikori Rice Whiskey, an AAPI woman-owned brand made with Kumamoto rice. Caer Maiko, veteran bartender and co-founder of Daijoubu: A Super Asian Cocktail Pop-up, appreciates that this whiskey is gentler on the palate, while still packing a flavor punch.

“A more wine-focused drinker can find notes they love in it because it’s a lighter style of whiskey, but the Sherry and French oak barrels used are quite impactful,” Maiko says.

$47 Total Wine & More

Oka Kura Japanese Bermutto Sake Vermouth

Sharon Yeung, who co-founded Daijoubu with Maiko, recommends both the dry and sweet iterations of Oka Kura, a Japanese sake vermouth. 

“It’s super fun to make it a combo gift with a favorite gin and a bottle of Oka Kura Bermutto (this is their standard and dry style), or a bottle of whisky with their Oka Kura Sweet Bermutto, so people can mix their own martinis and Manhattans at home,” Yeung suggests. “Since the Gibson is one of my favorite cocktails, I really love the addition of an Asian pickle for a savory martini kind of vibe.” 

Want to punch it up? Yeung suggests bringing the Japanese Bitters’ Umami Bitters to make cocktails at the dinner.

$30 Astor Wines & Spirits

1988 Gruaud Larose, Saint Julien, Deuxième Cru

If you want to impress, bring your pairing skills to the table with a wine that can stand up to a flavorful char siu pork. Ian Krupp, wine director at Anajak Thai, named the Los Angeles Times “2022 Restaurant of the Year,” suggests a Bordeaux, which is popular in Asia due to the British importers who brought loads of the region’s wines to Hong Kong. Wines from vintages with the number eight—a lucky number in Chinese numerology—bring extra good luck. 

The 1988 Gruaud Larose, Saint Julien, Deuxième Cru (extra lucky with two eights!) is readily available for purchase online.

$200 Flask Fine Wine & Whiskey

Northern Rhône Syrah

You’d be remiss to forget that it’s the Year of the Dragon, and that in the year ahead, fortune will favor the bold. That’s why Nikita Malhotra, head sommelier at Pressoir in New York City, doesn’t shy away from strong choices for Lunar New Year events, like a Cornas from Julien Cecillon or Franck Balthazar. 

“The savory, spice and fruit notes all come together quite well and in a balanced way, but what made me choose Cornas was that it is the darker, more gutsy version of Syrah from the Northern Rhône,” she says. “The meatiness and the subtle unfurling of smoke brings about images of dragons in the night sky.” 

Red wine is a popular pick for Lunar New Year, Malhotra says, because red is a lucky color in several Asian cultures. Don’t forget to find a vintage ending in eight—the 2018 Cecillon Cornas does the trick.

$ Varies The Rare Wine Co.

Kapena Li Hing Infused Tequila

If you want to bring something unique, or if you’re celebrating with Hawaiians, this spirit possesses a familiar yet novel taste. Khamphone Jot Voraphaychith, whose Village Ghost brewery creates Lao rice wine, suggests gifting Kapena Li Hing Infused Tequila, a spirit that blends 100% agave and the salty-sweet, dried Chinese-Hawaiian plum powder called li hing mui. That salty-sweet flavor plays nicely in margaritas and cocktails, but it also stands alone nicely, whether neat or on the rocks. 

“You may have had li hing mui if you’ve had various Hawaiian dried fruit snacks or candy,” Voraphaychith says. “Kapena’s li hing mui infused tequila gives off a velvety smooth vanilla flavor ending with a lingering li hing mui sweetness.” Take your pick of three flavors: the aforementioned Li Hing Mui infused, chili infused or the Kapena Silver.  

$60 Kapena Tequila

Ming River Sichuan Baijiu

“For me, there is nothing more synonymous to the Lunar New Year celebrations than firecrackers, red envelopes and baijiu,” says Philip Ly, lead bartender and beverage director at General Lee’s Cocktail House in Los Angeles. “Growing up, our household was filled with generations of family members, all with food-stuffed smiling faces socializing throughout the night. Red-cheeked adults gossip at the table drinking baijiu out of unusually tiny little drinking vessels.” 

Ly enjoys Ming River’s version of the clear and potent Chinese spirit for its bright, fruit forward character, which he says makes it the perfect cocktail ingredient and makes for an easy baiju introduction for newcomers. The distillery’s tried-and-true chops—it’s over 400 years old—appeal to seasoned baijiu enthusiasts, but the chic bottle and branding also appeal to the younger generation.

$36 Total Wine & More

Hennessy X.O x Yang Yongliang

The family of Dan Q. Dao, culture and food writer and founder of District One Studios, loves Hennessy as much as mine did Johnnie Walker, and these limited-edition bottles honor the Year of the Dragon with aplomb. 

“Likely a holdover from the French colonial era, Cognac is seen as a luxury good and status symbol in modern Vietnamese culture,” Dao says. “Growing up in a big Vietnamese family, I always saw Hennessy poured at weddings and parties—a bottle on every table.” Showing up at a Tết dinner with either a showstopper gold X.O. or lucky red V.S.O.P. bottle festooned with dragons by artist Yang Yongliang is a party starter, for sure. 

“A bottle of X.O. is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for Vietnamese aunties and uncles,” Dao says. “A pleasantly smooth-sipping option with all the requisite brandy notes of butterscotch, toasted caramel and candied orange peel, it’s a safe bet for gifting since it appeals to the palates of both newcomers as well as experts. That warming finish of spicy cinnamon and oak is also welcome during the cold winter months.” 

$270 Reserve Bar

Johnnie Walker Blue Label Lunar New Year Limited Edition

Ryan Bailey, wine director at Michelin-starred Taiwanese restaurant Kato, usually favors Japanese or Taiwanese whiskies, but can’t resist the florid dragon artwork by Taiwanese-American painter James Jean that festoons this year’s Johnnie Walker Blue Label Lunar New Year Limited Edition bottle. With a flair for drama, Jean has created movie posters for Everything Everywhere All at Once and a slew of Guillermo del Toro films, so it’s no wonder his label is stunning.

“Honestly, I might just display it on a shelf in my office rather than opening it,” Bailey says.

$233 Top Shelf Wine & Spirits

2022 Aligoté from Cho Wines

Bailey also likes the Aligote by Cho Wines in the Willamette Valley in Oregon, run by Oregon’s first Korean-American winemakers Dave and Lois Cho. You’d be welcome at any party with their pét-nats or classic Pinot Noir in hand, but the Aligoté offers more texture than the Chardonnay, along with “truly unique aromatics,” Bailey promises. Plus, it pairs well with whole fish, often served on Lunar New Year tables.

$55 Cho Wines

Magnum of Beaujolais

More is more on Lunar New Year, according to June Rodil, master sommelier and CEO/partner at Goodnight Hospitality in Houston, Texas. She recommends a magnum of Beaujolais for the holiday of prosperity. 

“To truly embrace the spirit of ‘more’ in 2024, reach for a wine that goes above and beyond,” she says. “Nothing screams ‘I care’ like a magnum-sized bottle. It’s not just about the wine; it’s a statement of generosity and togetherness.” 


A light and fruity wine strikes the perfect balance with oftentimes complicated-to-match Lunar New Year menus, Rodil says. “With its deep layers of umami, Beaujolais is the ideal companion for the table and won’t overpower the delicate flavors of fish and vegetables, yet it’ll stand its ground with the bold spices and hearty meats.” Opt for Marcel Lapierre, Foillard, Mee Godard, Guy Breton and Charly Thevenet—you can even go the extra mile by seeking out a wine from the 2012 vintage to commemorate the last time we welcomed the year of the dragon.

$80 Hart & Cru

A Bonus Bottle:

Angma Makgeolli

Korean makgeolli may have started as a humble farmer’s spirit, but finding a small-batch, American-made bottle of this milky, sweet, effervescent rice wine at the Korean grocery store can be a challenge. 

“Makgeolli is not only a delicious traditional Korean spirit, but this particular brand is being produced by a small, Korean-owned microbrewery right outside L.A.,” says Dustin Lee, co-owner of Jilli, a Korean bar in Los Angeles. “Bringing makgeolli is the perfect way to add a touch of Korean culture and tradition to the Lunar New Year festivities.” 

Lee says he’ll be bringing bottles of Los Angeles-made Angma makgeolli with him to parties and dinners. While it can be hard to track down—it’s only sold at a handful of brick-and-mortar spots in California—this small brand is well worth the effort. “It’s such a versatile beverage—it’s naturally carbonated and pairs well with a lot of dishes, like tofu kimchi, steamed tofu with stir fried kimchi and pork belly. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of Korean culture and tradition to the Lunar New Year festivities.”

$ Varies Drink Angma

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The 23 Best Non-Alcoholic Wines https://www.wineenthusiast.com/handpicked/best-non-alcoholic-wines-guide/ Thu, 18 Jan 2024 15:03:12 +0000 https://www.wineenthusiast.com/culture/best-non-alcoholic-wines-guide/ Non-alcoholic wines are an expanding category in the drinks space. But what exactly are NA wines and how do you find the best bottle? [...]

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There are many reasons to explore the modern non-alcoholic drinks space. For one, these days the category is big business, which has resulted in an ever-expanding variety of products from NA wine to zero-proof spirits. There’s never been a better time to begin navigating these options, given the rise of NA bottle shops and sommeliers who are themselves going sober.

One needn’t be completely abstinent from alcohol to enjoy NA drinks, although people—especially young adults—are increasingly taking that path. Perhaps you’re simply reevaluating your relationship with alcohol, or looking for a change of drinking pace. Whatever your reasoning, the fact remains that there are a ton of products to sort through.

When it comes to NA wine, many drinkers have similar questions: What exactly are non-alcoholic wines? And how do you find the best ones? Read on for our simple guide to this expanding category, plus bottle recommendations from Wine Enthusiast professionals and fawning customer reviews.

What Are Non-Alcoholic Wines?

There are two main types of non-alcoholic wines. There are wine alternatives, which resemble wine in flavor and texture, but do not contain alcohol, and dealcoholized wines, which are traditionally-made wines with their alcohol removed.

With regard to the latter, according to the Food and Drug Administration, wines labeled “alcohol-removed” and “dealcoholized” are only used when a wine goes through a specific process to remove most or all of the alcohol present. Such a bottle might also have the terms “zero alcohol” or “alcohol-free” on its label.

You May Also Like: The Best Non-Alcoholic Bottle Shops in America, According to the Pros

Sleek Design, Stable Temperatures

Rated the “Best Overall” wine fridge by Food & Wine, our 32-Bottle Dual Zone MAX Compressor Wine Cooler boasts “excellent capacity, accurate temperatures,” and other sweet features.

How Are Non-Alcoholic Wines Made?

There are four methods approved by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms for removing alcohol from wine, reports the Institute of Food Technologists. Alcohol can be removed through thin-film evaporation (called vacuum distillation), reverse osmosis, spinning cone distillation and thermal gradient processing. But the two most common ways are vacuum distillation and reverse osmosis.

In vacuum distillation, the beverage is heated to the point where the alcohol evaporates. During the practice of reverse osmosis, wine is run “through a filter, and the filter separates the alcohol based on the size of the molecule,” Terry Donnelly, chairman and CEO of Hill Street Beverage Company Inc. told Wine Enthusiast. “Alcohol is a bigger molecule than water, so you can literally run it through like a microscopic strainer and filter the alcohol off.”

In comparison, wine alternatives are designed to mimic the flavor, texture and experience of wine by using a variety of ingredients other than wine. Some options may include tea, kombucha or other fruit juices. Some wine alternatives simply feel like a nice booze-free beverage, while others use winemaking techniques to replicate the experience of tannin, flavors and acidity of wine.

There’s no shortage of NA wines to try. If you’re wondering where to buy non-alcoholic wines, we can help you there, too. We’ve compiled  a list of top-rated bottles on Amazon, Total Wine & More and other online retailers. To make the list, each bottle (only one per brand) needed to have at least four stars or higher. Check them out below.


The Best Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Wines

Thomson & Scott Noughty Dealcoholized Sparkling Chardonnay

Customer Rating: 4 Stars on Amazon

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: 0.0%

This bottling comes at the recommendation of Writer-at-Large Emily Saladino, who reviews wines from Hungary, Greece and Georgia. “This is my go-to bottle to bring to or serve parties all year long,” she shares. “It’s crisp, refreshing and truly tastes like wine. Best of all, because it’s dealcoholized, everyone can enjoy it, whether they’re sober, cutting back or simply want something delicious in their glass.”

 

$25 Amazon

Leitz – Eins Zwei Zero Sparkling Riesling

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: 0.0%

Writer-at-Large Christina Pickard, who reviews wines from Australia, New Zealand, England and New York, is a fan of this zero-proof offering from German producer Leitz.

“Bubbles can forgive a lot of average winemaking, particularly in the new ocean of underwhelming non-alcoholic products currently on the market,” she says. “In the case of this wine, however, the winemaking is there. The fizz is an added bonus.”

In a recent Instagram post, German wine expert Valerie Kathawala concurs, calling the wine a “most surprisingly satisfying simulacrum of real-deal Rieslingsekt: an elegant and super-fine perlage, just enough ‘dosage’ to read dry but convey Riesling’s characteristic fruit, a bright line of citric acidity, and a pleasing weight and body—the holy grail in non-alcs.”

$22 The Zero Proof

Cave de Ribeauville Rib0 De-Alcoholized Sparkling

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: 0.0%

Digital Senior Editor Sara Ventiera was blown away by this offering when she sampled it at Anajak Thai in Sherman Oaks, California, where sommelier Ian Krupp put it on the menu.

“Produced by serious winemakers out of Alsace, it’s light and crunchy with nice bubbles,” Ventiera says. “I was surprised by how closely it resembled the real thing—and it paired perfectly with the spicy drunken noodles and laarb meatballs.”

$18 Amazon

Thomson & Scott Noughty Alcohol-Free Sparkling Rosé

Customer Rating: 4.6 Stars on Noughty

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: 0.0%

Made with organic grapes, this rosé sparkler is vegan, alcohol-free and fruity. Pop this bottle open for a special occasion or any night of the week. Wine Enthusiast Tasting Director Anna-Christina Cabrales is a big fan.

“Amanda Thomson, former BBC Arts Broadcaster and super wine aficionado designed Noughty AF with the wine connoisseur in mind,” Cabrales says. The texture and flavor are spot on, with “lots of soft red berries, sweet spices and well-integrated acidity, making it a great aperitif or a versatile pairing.

$22 Boisson

Wölffer Estate Spring In a Bottle Non-Alcoholic Wine

Customer Rating: 5 Stars on Total Wine

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: 0.0%

Made in Germany using Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, Saint Laurent and Dornfelder grapes, this bright and rich sparkling rosé offers red berries on the nose and palate. A vibrant acidity and elegant fruitiness is balanced by minerality and a long finish. Ideal with pork, rich chicken dishes and even cheese courses, this versatile sparkler is both enduring and complex. With consistent high ratings, this wine is one of the best non-alcoholic wines on the market, in any category. 

What Customers Are Saying: “Deliciously dry,” one reviewer writes. “Phenomenal dry sparkling rosé. Best alcohol-free wine I’ve had.”

$18 Total Wine & More

Freixenet Sparkling Alcohol-Removed Wine

Customer Rating: 5 Stars on Total Wine

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: .05%

This fruity, sparkling non-alcoholic wine comes from Spain by a brand that already produces alcoholic varieties. Each sip brings flavors of raspberry, strawberry, tropical fruits and floral notes. It’s best served with light dishes like seafood or grilled chicken but is a great addition to a cheese spread.  

What Customers Are Saying: “The rosé is crisp, fruity and refreshing. Dryness is comparable to other good NA sparkling wines,” one reviewer said. “Some sweetness. Not too sweet, but not bone dry. I personally prefer the rosé over the white for a little extra fruitiness. Raspberries and a little citrus for me. Great on its own or with food.” 

$12 Total Wine & More

St. Regis Non-Alcoholic Brut

Customer Rating: 4.2 Stars on Total Wine & More

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: .05%

Made with Chardonnay grapes sourced from France, this sparkler can be sipped on its own or mixed into a drink for a NA mocktail. Customers consider it to be one of the best non-alcoholic sparkling wines around.

What Customers Are Saying: “As a regular Champagne drinker,” one sparkling fan wrote. “I was not disappointed in this offering. [I’m] always trying to get flavor with less alcohol units. This was a decent substitute!”

$13 Total Wine & More

Pierre Chavin Perle Rose Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rosé

Customer Rating: 4.7 Stars on Amazon

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: .05%

We think some of the greatest things in life come with bubbles. Luckily, with Almost Zero, you can still indulge in something sparkling sans booze. This dry vegan wine offers notes of tropical and citrus fruit, making it perfect to sip on its own or mix into drinks like mimosas.

What Customers Are Saying: “It was a joy to discover this product,” one reviewer wrote. “We have always enjoyed mimosas for brunch, but previous alternative [option’s] taste was lacking. This product has a very good ‘brut’ taste, and the bubbles are just right!”

$32 Amazon

Chatêau De Fleur Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Wine Champagnette

Customer Review: 4 Stars on Total Wine & More

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: <.05%

New Zealand is known for its Sauvignon Blanc, and now, imbibers can enjoy one of the country’s signature grapes sans alcohol.

What Customers Are Saying: “Best non-alcoholic wine I’ve tasted,” wrote one reviewer. “[It] does not taste watered down.” Another fan of this white wine wrote, “The closest you will come to the taste of Sauvignon Blanc without the alcohol. Refreshing tart grapefruit notes with a whiff of tannins. Not sweet like grape juice. Please keep this in stock!”

$17 Amazon

Almost Zero Sparkling Non-Alcoholic Dry Wine

Customer Rating: 4.7 Stars on Amazon

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: .05%

We think some of the greatest things in life come with bubbles. Luckily, with Almost Zero, you can still indulge in something sparkling sans booze. This dry vegan wine offers notes of tropical and citrus fruit, making it perfect to sip on its own or mix into drinks like mimosas.

What Customers Are Saying: “It was a joy to discover this product,” one reviewer wrote. “We have always enjoyed mimosas for brunch, but previous alternative [option’s] taste was lacking. This product has a very good ‘brut’ taste, and the bubbles are just right!”

$15 Total Wine & More

Rondel Zero Non-Alcoholic Cava

Customer Rating: 4.3 Stars on Total Wine & More

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: 0.0%

Spanish winemakers have been making sparkling wine via the traditional method since the early 1870s. Those who wish to partake in the festivities with a glass of bubbly sans booze can pour a glass of Rondel Zero Non-Alcoholic Cava.

What Customers Are Saying: “[It was] very good and [I] will purchase it again,” said one bubbly drinker. “[It] was nice and classy [with] the right amount of bubbles … If I had known it was this good I would have bought a case.”

$11 Total Wine & More

The Best Non-Alcoholic White Wines

Fre Sauvignon Blanc Non-Alcoholic Wine

Customer Rating: 5.0 Stars on Total Wine & More

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: 0.5%

With notes of green grass and plenty of tropical fruit, California’s FRE Sauvignon Blanc offers up a clean, crisp wine that is characteristic of the grape variety. A round, supple finish closes off this undeniably delicious white–one of the best in the category.

What Customers Are Saying: “I bought this wine expecting grape juice, but it was not,” one drinker writes. “It was crisp, with notes of pear, and had the consistency and texture of wine. The absolute best part is no alcohol so no side effects. Delicious!!”

$9 Total Wine & More

Giesen Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 0% Alcohol

Customer Rating: 4.0 Stars on Total Wine & More

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: <.05%

New Zealand is known for its Sauvignon Blanc, and now, imbibers can enjoy one of the country’s signature grapes, but without the alcohol. Grassy and mineral, this wine drinks like a true, crisp Marlborough white, and pairs well with everything from lean meat and fish to ripe cheeses.

What Customers Are Saying: “Best non-alcoholic wine I’ve tasted,” wrote one reviewer. “[It] does not taste watered down.” Another fan of this white wine wrote, “The closest you will come to the taste of Sauvignon Blanc without the alcohol. Refreshing tart grapefruit notes with a whiff of tannins. Not sweet like grape juice. Please keep this in stock!”

$14 Total Wine & More

Magic Box ‘Vanish’ Non-Alcoholic Riesling

Customer Rating: 4.0 Stars on Total Wine & More

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: 0.4%

Hailing from Germany, this citrus-driven wine offers up plenty of minerality, as well as Riesling’s signature petrol aromas. A lingering acidity on the back palate keeps this wine clean and refreshing.

What Customers Are Saying: “Tasty,” one reviewer offers. “One of the better non-alcoholic wines I’ve tasted. I would purchase it again.”

$10 Total Wine & More

The Best Non-Alcoholic Red and Rosé Wines

Fre White Zinfandel

Customer Rating: 4.3 Stars on Total Wine & More

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: <.05%

Before rosé was readily available across the U.S., pink wine lovers drank white Zinfandel, which was first made, marketed and sold by Sutter Home in the 1970s. Now, the company’s Fre White Zinfandel offers those same fruity flavors without the buzz.

What Customers Are Saying: “This is actually really, really good,” one shopper raved. “I am shocked, to be honest. I was expecting it to be super sweet and it’s not! I just quit drinking a year ago and this is the first n/a wine that I really like—for a cool summer option you won’t be disappointed.”

$7 Total Wine & More

Giesen Red Blend Non-Alcoholic Wine

Customer Rating: 4 Stars on Total Wine & More

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: 0.5%

Crushed red berries, soft plum and a hint of oak define this blend. Pair it with rich meats like lamb, beef or even game birds; this full-bodied wine can hold up to nearly anything you throw at it.

What Customers Are Saying: “A really good 0% alcohol option that includes my preferred characteristics: full-bodied, fruity and dry,” shares one reviewer.

$14 Total Wine & More

Be Free Rosé Non-Alcoholic Wine

Customer Rating: 4 Stars on Total Wine & More

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: .05%

This non-alcoholic rosé allows all to enjoy the unofficial drink of summer. It’s a light bodied blend that exhibits watermelon and cherry flavors while not being overly sweet. Simply pour this in a glass, call up some family or friends and you have everything you need for the perfect summer afternoon.

What Customers Are Saying: “I was not sure what to expect but was pleasantly surprised by the rosé. I like it so much that I will try other kinds,” wrote one reviewer.

$10 Total Wine & More

Ariel Cabernet Sauvignon Non-Alcoholic Wine

Customer Rating: 4 Stars on Amazon

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: <.05%

Red wine drinkers looking to cut back on alcohol will appreciate this oak-aged Cabernet Sauvignon made by Ariel Vineyards. Sumptuous, soft and long-finishing, this wine pairs well with red meats and roasts.

What Customers Are Saying: “[It] has the true flavor of Cabernet without the alcohol,” one reviewer wrote. “Delicious with a steak!”

$10 Total Wine & More

The Best Non-Alcoholic Wine Alternatives

Martini & Rossi Floreale Non Alcoholic

Customer Rating: 5.0 Stars on Total Wine & More

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: 0.5%

Martini & Rossi has come to the table with an aperitivo inspired by their classic vermouth. Fruity and balanced, this non-alcoholic and herbaceous drink is ideal for sipping at the beginning–or end–of a meal.

What Customers Are Saying: “One of the best non-alcohol products on the market,” one drinker shares. “It is deep in flavor and satisfying. Tastes like a fine-quality sipping vermouth.”

$23 Total Wine & More

Stella Rosa Peach Non-Alcoholic

Customer Rating: 4.6 Stars on Total Wine & More

Type: Dealcoholized Wine

Alcohol Level: <.05%

Stella Rosa has been making wine in California since before Prohibition. This dealcoholized peach offering is favored by those who love fruity wines. It’s a little sweet and full of round, fruity flavors, perfect at the end of a meal or served with savory cheeses.

What Customers Are Saying: “I was pleasantly surprised by this non-alcoholic drink,” wrote one reviewer. “The peach taste is subtle but very delicious. I enjoyed this and will definitely buy it again.

$7 Total Wine & More

Belvoir Fruit Farms Elderflower Rose Lemonade

Customer Rating: 4.3 Stars of Amazon

Type: Wine Alternative

Alcohol Level: 0.0%

Made from carbonated water, elderflower, lemon juice and elderberry, this alcohol-free wine alternative is perfect for topping off a mocktail or sipping straight up. For those looking for a sweeter option, this is a great pick for a mild, floral flavor.

What Customers Are Saying: “Delicious, mildly sweet, great taste of elderflower with a hint of rose,” one reviewer noted. “Wonderfully different, light summer drink.”

$11 Amazon

TÖST All-Natural Alcohol-Free Sparkling Beverage

Customer Rating: 4.3 Stars on Amazon

Type: Wine Alternative

Alcohol Level: 0.0%

Though not technically a wine, this wine alternative is made from sparkling white tea, cranberry and ginger to mimic the flavors of a glass of your favorite white. This dry sparkling drink has a refreshing flavor of citrus and fruit.

What Customers Are Saying: “Loved this a lot. Had a tea flavor to it and was frothy like beer. Really nice after a long day and perfect if you’re trying to cut back or quit drinking wine,” one reviewer raved.

$30 Amazon

Red Clay and Red Ember Proxies (Set of Four)

Customer Rating: 4.2 Stars on Proxies

Type: Wine Alternative

Alcohol Level: <.05%

Along with grapes, Proxies blends together teas, spices and fruits into different ferments to imitate the taste of wine. This four-pack comes with two different options. To start, there’s the Red Clay, which the company describes as “tart, tannic and medium-bodied” and notes it pairs well with everything from mushrooms to burgers. Then there’s the Red Ember, which is described as “big and bold with layers of dark fruit and rich coffee,” and a great pairing for steak.

What Customers Are Saying: “I love how unique the tastes are and how well they go with food,” wrote one reviewer. “It does everything I want from wine and without the buzz!”

$98 Proxies

FAQs

Does Non-Alcoholic Wine Have Alcohol?

Any NA wine that has undergone the fermentation process will have trace amounts of alcohol, often in the realm of .5%. This is similar to commercial kombucha.

How to Pick a Non-Alcoholic Wine

Like any other bottle of wine, choosing a non-alcoholic bottle is based on your personal preferences. Read online reviews or ask for personal recommendations to know if a particular bottle will meet your tastes.

How Do You Store Non-Alcoholic Wine?

Much like with regular wine, you’ll want to store your unopened non-alcoholic bottles in a cool, dry place. The refrigerator for both reds and whites, of course, works fine. But don’t leave these bottles lying around for too long. They are meant to be consumed young, so you’ll want to pop the cork within a couple months of purchasing them.

How Long Does Non-Alcoholic Wine Last After Opening?

Once non-alcoholic wines have been opened, you’ll want to consume them within 24 to 48 hours as they will quickly lose their fresh and fruity qualities once exposed to air. For non-alcoholic sparklers, drink within 24 hours of opening as they go flat quickly after the carbon dioxide has been released.  

How We Chose These Non-Alcoholic Wines

We wanted to ensure that there was a bottle on this list for every kind of drinker. Here you’ll find non-alcoholic wines for those who love heavy reds, crisp bubbles and everyone in between. First, we queried our team of editors and writers at large. In addition, we sifted through customer reviews and only chose options that maintained a four-star rating or higher with at least 15 customer reviews.

This article was updated on October 23, 2023.  

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The Best Bar Gifts of 2023, According to Drink Experts https://www.wineenthusiast.com/handpicked/best-bar-gifts/ Sun, 29 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.wineenthusiast.com/?p=162049 Explore the must-have glassware, accessories and more every home bar should have to create the perfect drinking experience. [...]

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Finding gifts for the wine and spirits lovers in your life may seem like an easy task, but there’s more that goes into it than you may think. From glassware to accessories to preservation systems and beyond, the categories of drinks-forward gifts are endless, only to be surpassed by the options within each segment.

Jay James, MS, President of Benchmark Wine Group, states that finding excellent home bar gifts is more difficult than it sounds, and the reason is usually quality. “I see lots of questionable tools and items available at retail—the types of things that wouldn’t last a week behind a professional bar, or even be used there in the first place,” he reveals. The solution? “Look carefully for high-quality tools and stick to specialty retailers who feature items produced with professionals in mind,” he says.

You May Also Like: 15 Must-Have Gifts for Cocktail Lovers, According to Mixologists and Distillers

Jess Goldfarb, owner of Due West, finds that fundamentally sound and well-made tools / vessels always make for safe gifts. “You want something that is not too specific and can be used again and again,” he says. For wine lovers, Goldfarb recommends sticking with some nice glasses and a decanter. “Get something you’re comfortable with and that is well constructed,” he affirms.

Taking advice from the experts into consideration, we’ve put together our Bar Essentials Gift Guide, equipped with unique and useful ideas for every wine and spirits lover in your life. No matter your recipient’s specific preferences—or let’s be real, your budget at hand—our comprehensive list promises to hold something for every libations lover on your list.

Shop by Category:

Wine Preservation Systems & Savers

Serving and Chilling

Wine Openers

Specialty Glasses

Wine Glasses

Whiskey Glassware

Wine Storage

At-Home Bar Cabinets


Wine Preservation Systems & Savers

Coravin Timeless Three + System

There’s a reason sommeliers, collectors, and industry professionals alike have long reached for the Coravin—it’s simply the best in the game. Beloved for its facility, as well as its effectiveness in preserving wine, this functional wine preservation system allows wine lovers to enjoy sips, tastes, or full glasses of their favorite bottles without ever pulling the cork—all while preserving the wine in bottle for months, or even years, after use.

Max Goldberg Liu, Director of Communications and Operations at La Paulée and executive team member at Pressoir, describes the Coravin as a fantastic product with many practical uses. “I use mine very frequently to pour myself a glass or two of wine at a time,” he says. “My wife is not a big drinker, so the Coravin allows me to enjoy a relatively nice bottle of wine without the pressure of having to finish it within a day or two, and the argon system works exactly as advertised.” Goldberg Liu notes that the Coravin also allows collectors to take small tastes from bottles in cellars, to verify that a wine is sound before popping, as well as see how a wine is aging.

$249 Wine Enthusiast

Somm du Vin 2-Bottle Wine Preserver

Ever wonder how wine bars keep their bottles fresh and tasty for extended periods of time? This Somm du Vin 2-Bottle Wine Preserver proves the method. Composed of an automated compact dual zone preserver and chiller, the preservation device ensures that wines remain drinkable for up to 10 days. Thanks to the system’s automatic vacuum seal, the machine functions without any gas cartridges or devices, meaning no additional accessories or purchases are required. The preserving system is perfect for still wines of all styles, including reds, whites, rosés, and can accommodate most standard 750 mL bottles.

$349 Wine Enthusiast

Wine Enthusiast Automatic Vacuum Wine Saver and Preserver

In the world of wine preservation, this simple, easy-to-use vacuum wine saver is a great place to start. Measuring just under six inches in size, this battery-powered device automatically vacuum seals open wine and preserves it for up to one week. Each system includes four silicone stoppers with a date set ring and a charging cable, ensuring that users know exactly when the wine was first sealed. Budget friendly, easy to use, and versatile? Sign us up.

$35 Wine Enthusiast

Serving and Chilling

Wine Bottle Chilling Rod with Aerator/Pourer and Accessories Set

Looking to chill your wine in a pinch? This wine chilling rod is the perfect go-to item. Versatile and useful, this 3-in-1 chilling rod also doubles as an aerator and pourer, ensuring a refreshing and mess-free drinking experience. Simply adding the frozen chilling rod into your favorite bottle of wine ensures that it’ll remain fresh and cold without ever needing to reach for an ice bucket, with the drip-free pouring design as the cherry on top. Best of all, the chilling rod comes with a waiter corkscrew, plastic foil cutter, and silicone topper, meaning your whole wine service experience is covered from start to finish—all for just $25.

$25 Wine Enthusiast

Wine Openers

​​​Goldfarb states that a wine key makes for a great gift, mostly due in part to its versatility. “Aside from opening up wine bottles, I am constantly using the knife for all things,” he says, describing it as his version of a Swiss Army knife. “The beauty of the wine key is that there are so many different styles and materials, with a huge range in price depending on what you’re looking for,” he affirms.

Wine Enthusiast x Cheer Moda Electric Sparkling Wine Opener

Have a wine-loving friend who adores sparkling wine, yet finds themselves intimidated to open the bottles’ precarious corks? Thanks to Wine Enthusiast X Cheer Moda Electric Sparkling Wine Opener, safely popping the corks on bottles of bubbly is easier than ever. Deemed the first automatic sparkling wine opener in the world, this innovative wine tool extracts corks from sparkling wine bottles with the simple press of a button. The technology behind it all? An inventive buffer system that offsets high air pressure, as well as a double layer structure that provides added protection. Best of all, this opener comes with an airtight sparkling wine stopper, which helps to keep unfinished bubbles fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator. A true win-win! Note: Sparkling wines should always be served chilled (between 43°F – 50°F) and opened with meticulous care.

$79 Wine Enthusiast

The Durand Wine Opener

Long-standing collectors and industry pros alike know the difficulties that can incur when pulling the corks on aged bottles of wine; enter the Durand, the twin-blade device used by professionals all around the globe. A favorite in the cellar, this zinc alloy and steel product was created to remove fragile corks from bottle necks without damaging the cork—or wine in bottle, of course.

“This love child of an ah-so and corkscrew is a very specialized tool but an indispensable one if you frequently open old bottles,” says Goldberg Liu, describing the product as the “absolute best wine opener” for fragile corks—and revealing that around two dozen Durands find themselves swirling around the room at a time during the annual La Paulée tasting. “We always make sure to have around 25 Durands in the wine room at La Paulée, where cleanly and gently opening our guests’ treasured rare wines is of paramount importance,” Goldberg Liu explains.

$145 Wine Enthusiast

Wine Enthusiast x L’Atelier du Vin Glossy Black and Wood Oeno Motion Corkscrew

For the wine lover that has it all, this exclusive corkscrew makes a unique and unforgettable gift. Crafted in partnership with France’s premier maker of wine tools, this luxurious wine key is made with high-quality metal alloy and a solid wood walnut handle, with optional personalization available as a special final touch. The opener’s ergonomic handle and integrated foil cutter make opening bottles a breeze from start to finish—even those with pesky thick capsules or hard-to-release corks.

$170 Wine Enthusiast

Legacy Corkscrew with Black Marble Stand and Handle (Antique Bronze)

Looking for an exceptional home bar gift for that special wine connoisseur? This best-selling Legacy Corkscrew with Black Marble Stand is just the ticket. With a solid black marble stand and vintage-inspired grapevine relief, this tabletop corkscrew offers effortless wine openings by the simple pull of the handle and removes both natural and synthetic corks alike. Customer Elaine T. says it’s an excellent conversation piece. “It has an industrial meets antique feel, and we just have fun using it! It’s a beautiful piece!” The corkscrew housing boasts a vintage grapevine relief design, and the marble stand can be monogrammed for a striking bespoke touch.

$129.95 Wine Enthusiast

Specialty Glasses

Port Sippers Handblown Port Wine Glasses (Set of 4)

Sipping Port always promises a good time, though when done so out of these 17th century-inspired glasses, the fun is instantly doubled. Specially designed to enhance aromatics and flavors, these uniquely shaped glasses are just 0.20 pounds each, making them light in the hand and just as light on the lips. It is recommended to enjoy Port wine at around 64-degrees Fahrenheit. The shape of the glass allows the warmth from the user’s hand to transmit to the bowl, while the sipping stem reduces wine oxidation. Each glass is also equipped with two tiny “feet,” ensuring the glasses can be placed down and stand on their own. The set of four comes with a deluxe storage case, making them a beautiful gift and easy to store for special occasions or for traveling.

$39.99 Wine Enthusiast

L’Atelier du Vin Bubbles Celebration Champagne Flutes (Set of 2)

Seeking an off-the-beaten-path gift for the bubbly lover in your life? These colorful, eye-catching flutes from L’Atelier du Vin promise to do the trick. Designed by renowned glass artists Monica Guggisberg and Philip Baldwin, they’re handblown from pigmented glass by some of the best artisans in Europe and are individually numbered to designate their unique nature. Available in Royal Blue, Chardonnay Green, or Champagne Pink, these authentic and unforgettable glasses promise an excitingly effervescent experience—and forget the need for a celebration; glasses like these are a party in themselves!

$220 Wine Enthusiast

Wine Glasses

Wine Enthusiast Vienna Break Resistant Glasses

Most beverage professionals agree having break-resistant glassware is key to establishing a safe and successful drinking experience. Goldberg Liu says can think of no better gift for wine lovers than a nice set of glasses. “[Nice stems] make the wine pairing with your seamless order feel like a Michelin star experience,” he explains.

Enter Vienna’s line of break-resistant glassware, perfect for happy hours, dinner parties, and gatherings. Elegantly tall, their long stems and deep v-shaped bowls promise a balanced and comfortable drinking experience, while also ensuring that the wine shows its absolute best side. And at $25 a stem, these high-quality glasses are much more affordable than most of their industry counterparts. Jay James, MS, President of Benchmark Wine Group, says, “These [stems] are extremely versatile (you don’t have to only put wine in them!) and are glasses that promise to resist breaking…what’s not to like about that?!” he exclaims.

$ Varies Wine Enthusiast

Whiskey Glasses

Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23 Year Decanter and Glasses 3-Piece Set

There are a few ways to instantly grab the attention of the whiskey lover in your life, and simply saying the words ‘Pappy Van Winkle’ is one of them. While snagging a bottle of one of the most sought-after—and expensive—bottles of bourbon in the world may not be in the cards, grabbing this exclusive Pappy Van Winkle glassware is most certainly a top-tier alternative. Each set comes with a decanter and two Old Fashioned glasses, deeply etched with the Van Winkle Family Reserve 23 Year logo. No matter which bourbon your gift recipient is enjoying, this exclusive Pappy Van Winkle three-piece set promises to elevate the experience

$179 Wine Enthusiast

Astor Whiskey Decanter and Glasses Set

For a sophisticated, more budget-friendly option to the Pappy Van Winkle Set, consider this classic whiskey glassware set. Each set contains one decanter with glass stopper, as well as two tumblers, with personalization options available. Crafted from a durable, lightweight lead-free glass, these sleek and luxurious bar items instantly add a sparkling touch to at-home bars and are a great fit for whiskey lovers of all preferences. Wrap it with their favorite bottle of whiskey or bourbon for a tasteful gift they can enjoy right away.

$89 Wine Enthusiast

Wine Storage

Wine Enthusiast 32-Bottle Dual Zone MAX Compressor Wine Cooler

Storing wine in the proper conditions is the only way to guarantee quality preservation over time, and a solid at-home wine cooler is a great place to start. ​​Named best in its class by The New York Times, Food & Wine, Forbes and more, this 32-bottle MAX Compressor is a perfect middle ground for wine lovers of all preferences and home sizes. The cooler’s larger low zone offers optimal storage for long-term aging, while the smaller top zone is ideal for storing bottles destined for imminent consumption. The compressor cooling technology lasts up to two times longer than fridges of comparable cost and size and runs quietly to ensure an impeccible experience at home. First time wine cooler purchaser and customer Todd L. was pleased with its performance, sharing it’s “quit in our condo” and offers “ample space for both red and white wines.”

$499 Wine Enthusiast

Wine Enthusiast Latitude S 24″ Smart Wi-Fi Undercounter Wine Cellar

In-home wine cellars are truly the gift that keeps on gifting—especially if they’re as high-quality as this Latitude S24” model. Customer Anna A. calls it a “Great buy!” noting its attractiveness and incredibly quiet performance. Built for versatility and convenience, this single zone wine cellar is ideal for red wine lovers and comes equipped with easy-slide, universal shelves that can easily accommodate a variety of bottle shapes and sizes (overall capacity is 46 standard-sized bottles). Front ventilation means it can be tucked under an at-home bar or built into cabinetry. It’s also Wi-Fi enabled so you can easily manage your cellar from anywhere using your smart phone.

$999 Wine Enthusiast

At-Home Bar Cabinets

Spirits Vault

Looking to really wow the spirits lover in your life? This stunning spirits bar cabinet promises to make a lasting impression. Customer Debbi S. who ordered it as a Christmas present for her daughter says, “Love the vault! The cabinet is beautiful and displays all the liquors as well as barware.” Crafted from acacia wood with a sandblasted finish, this vault-inspired spirits chest comes equipped with LED lighting and two cabinets with key locks for storing booze, wine, and glassware alike. It’s refined rustic look and ample storage space, complete with two large shelves and an upper compartment with flip-up pocket door, make it ideal for burgeoning and seasoned spirits collectors alike.

$2,295 Wine Enthusiast

Lancaster 3-Piece Burl Wood Bar Center With Cooling Storage Option

For a full-service bar option, consider this 3-piece wood bar center with optional wine coolers. Complete with a liquor cabinet, display shelves, stemware rack for 15 glasses, and the choice of adjustable shelves or 12-bottle wine coolers, this customizable piece of furniture makes for a truly indelible gift for serious at-home bartenders and entertaining enthusiasts. Crafted from burled oak veneers, solid pine, and black powder-coated iron, this Scandinavian-design-inspired bar center is as durable as it is versatile, ensuring a professional-caliber experience they’ll enjoy for years.

$2,895 Wine Enthusiast

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16 Expert-Approved Food and Wine Gifts You Won’t Find Just Anywhere https://www.wineenthusiast.com/handpicked/food-and-wine-gifts/ Sat, 28 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.wineenthusiast.com/?p=161738 From the latest gourmet treats to personalized serveware, explore tasteful finds for discerning foodies, cooks and wine lovers. [...]

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Gourmands are some of the easiest people to find gifts for, especially during the indulgent holiday season, when a variety of gourmet gifts appear everywhere from department stores to grocery stores. But what do you gift your discerning foodie friends and family who have everything from the latest and greatest serveware to the buzziest new ingredients?

We’ve asked epicurean experts to weigh in and curated 16 unique gourmet gifts that will excite their appetites and convey that they’re more special to you than just a bottle of good olive oil or a dime-a-dozen cheese board.


Best Foodie Gifts

Pappy Bourbon Balls

Scoring a bottle of Pappy Van Winkle during the holiday season—a unicorn among whiskeys—may prove difficult, or at least cost-prohibitive, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a little Pappy into the stocking of your favorite whiskey lover this season. Enter Pappy Bourbon Balls, boozy chocolate confections that are spiked with Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year Bourbon. “The sweet corn, vanilla, oak, and caramel complexity of the bourbon pairs beautifully with the earthy and bittersweet notes that come through in the chocolate,” says William Dissen, Executive Chef and Owner of The Market Place in Asheville, NC, and Author of “Thoughtful Cooking: Recipes Rooted in the New South.” Take it from a Southern chef, these Pappy Bourbon Balls are destined to become a favorite for this and subsequent holidays

$39.95 Wine Enthusiast

Wine Enthusiast x iGourmet Grand Charcuterie and Cheese Collection

What to get your fromage fanatic or charcuterie champion who already has a variety of beautiful boards for serving? An all-in-one assortment that makes it easy to fill up those boards, of course. This exclusive Wine Enthusiast x iGourmet kit includes expertly curated meats, cheeses, and a variety of accoutrements to inspire the highest level charcuterie board design, while hitting all the right notes of flavor and texture. “This is truly an exceptional representation of a great charcuterie and cheese board,” says Dominick DiBartolomeo, Owner of The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills. “I love having contrasting and complementing flavors and textures, as what happens here with a variety of crackers and accompaniments. That’s what the experience is all about.”

$175 Wine Enthusiast

Savannah Bee Gourmet Honey Gift Sets

True culinary enthusiasts know that not all honey is created equal, and, like wine, honey can express a sense `of place through the hive’s source “Just like different types of vinegar offer various flavor profiles and enhance dishes in special ways, a variety of honey types can perform the same culinary magic,” says Adesuwa Elaiho, CEO and Executive Chef at San Antonio’s Asukar. Savannah Bee honey gifts offer a variety of unique flavors your favorite foodies will love to indulge in.

Savannnah Bee Book for Honey for a Good and Sweet Year Gift Set

Set the tone for a sweet 2024 with an assortment of Savannah Bee honeys, packaged in a charming bound, storybook style box. The set includes Acacia, Lavender, and extra-special Tupelo honey to support a variety of recipes—or just to enjoy as a topping. “Match a honey’s flavor profile to the recipe you’re working on , and you’ve just added the perfect touch of sweetness,” says Asukar.

$89 Wine Enthusiast

Savannah Bee Hot Box Gift Set

A great gourmet gift for the spiciest gourmands in your life, this fiery set includes not only Savanah Bee’s hot honey, but honey hot sauce, as well as hot honey fire sticks for snacking. “I always recommend having hot honey on hand if you’re a home mixologist, or anyone who likes to impress their guests when serving cocktails or unique dishes,” says Jim Kearns, Director of Beverage at Arizona Biltmore—a Waldorf Astoria Resort.

$50 Wine Enthusiast

Best Serveware Gifts

Personalized Reclaimed Barrel Pizza Board with Pizza Wheel and Spatula

We all have that one friend or family member whose whole being is best summarized by the word “pizza. “Attractive and practical, reclaimed oak barrels provide the source material for a personalized pizza board that makes for the easiest and cleanest cuts. Slicing guidelines and an accompanying pizza slicer make it even easier. Plus, personalization turns a good gift into something heirloom-worthy. “Receiving a personalized gift always brings a big smile to anyone’s face,” says Erica Key, Atlanta-based Editor-in-Chief of Eating with Erica and author of “Confidently Cooking.” “These thoughtful gifts prompt more kitchen time and offer a unique touch that can’t be easily replicated.”

$169.95 Wine Enthusiast

Personalized Reclaimed Whiskey Barrel and Cast Iron Sizzling Platter Set

From fajitas and steak to pizza and brownies, this restaurant-quality set is cooking-enthusiast pleaser with unlimited practical applications and a number of great ingredients. The heavy-duty cast iron skillet comes pre-seasoned, a real gift unto itself. It comes with a reclaimed barrel wood table platter and hot handle mitt makes it easy to move their sizzling cast iron dish between the oven and stove top and to the table for a seamless presentation. And, same as the other reclaimed barrel items on our list, the sustainability angle is also a meaningful approach to gifting. “In this day and age, it’s increasingly important to be aware of our footprint and the materials we’re using on a daily basis,” says Damon Campbell, Executive Chef of Fairmont Pacific Rim in Vancouver, Canada. “By gifting repurposed materials, it’s showing you care for the world around you, with the goal of leaving the planet better than you found it.”

$129 Wine Enthusiast

All-In-One Acacia Wood Cheese Board and Wine Decanter Serving Set

Trying to decide between a creative decanter and an elegant cheese board for someone who always hosts epic wine and cheese nights at home? You don’t have to with this all-in-one combo that includes an acacia wood board with a marble slab for presenting cheese and charcuterie, ceramic condiment bowls, serving tools, and a science-inspired, built-in decanter. Both fun and functional, “Decanters are awesome gifts because when used it makes guests feel as though they are drinking something special, that you care about your friends experiencing the wine in its best possible moment,” says David Weitzenhoffer, owner of NYC’s Community Wine and Spirits. “They really work for enhancing aromatics and flavor profile on the palate.” Better still, the decanter is also customizable for the recipient, making for serious heirloom gift potential.

$249.95 Wine Enthusiast

Barrel-Inspired Acacia Wood and Chalkboard Swivel Cheeseboard Set

For the turophile in your life who always dazzles with the latest, unique cheese finds, give them the gift of showing off their exceptional “curdplay” with a chalkboard accented cheese board that makes labeling a breeze. “Having a chalkboard element makes for great conversation and really adds to the experience,” says DiBartolomeo. “It allows your guests to know what they are having, especially if they want to remember what they liked.” Since your cheese lover always serves the good stuff, naturally everyone will want to remember what they liked. With three condiment bowls and swivel functionality, it’s also perfect for casual, cheese board date nights at home.

$129 Wine Enthusiast

Personalized Reclaimed Bourbon Barrel and Cold Marble Stone Ice Cream Mixing Station

A cold stone marble slab for creative ice cream concoctions is a stone cold great gourmet gift idea. As with the taco holders above, “an ice cream board encourages experimentation with various mix-ins,” says Key, justification enough for a niche foodie gift like this, especially for gourmet friends with ice-cream loving kids: an activity and a money-saver all in one. Consider that a personalized ice cream board such as this one, that becomes beloved by your family for impromptu ice cream parties, “makes for something to be passed down to your children or grandchildren,” says Key, a unique gift, also made with historied reclaimed wood, that transcends generations.

$169 Wine Enthusiast

Acacia Wood and Marble Cheese Board With Built-In Cheese Slicer

For the burgeoning cheese lover who doesn’t yet have the perfect cheese board, you can help them go beyond aficionado to downright pro with the simple but elegant functionality of a built-in wire slicer. “In my opinion, there is no better way to portion cheese than with a slicer,” says DiBartolomeo. “You can use skeleton knives for softer and semi-soft cheeses, but we all know the cheese still sticks to the knife or crumbles. With a wire, you get a clean cut every time and the cheeses always keep their shape”—of high importance in creating the most Insta-worthy cheese board creations. Customizable, and including a built-in drawer for serving tools, it’s the perfect upgrade for loved ones looking to take their cheese relationship to the next level.

$119 Wine Enthusiast

Personalized Reclaimed Whiskey Barrel Sushi Boards with Sauce Dishes

For culinary enthusiasts, the right tool for every job knows no bounds and that includes pieces for presentation. If your favorite foodie owns a rice paddle and sushi rollers, then they’ll adore this serving set. Complete with two personalized sushi boards with dishes for soy sauce, they’re perfect for their bespoke maki creations – and even take out. “These are really fun additions to any kitchen,” says Campbell. “If they help enhance the experience, then why not?”

$149 (Set of 2) Wine Enthusiast

Reclaimed Bourbon Barrel Taco Holders with Condiment Cup

File taco holders under gifts that may cause the recipient to exclaim, “how did I ever survive without these?” Here, beautiful reclaimed barrel wood is transformed into a 3-slot taco holder to easily build and present enticing tacos. Having a taco holder “can truly inspire creativity,” says Key, the value of which as a gourmet gift for home cooks is immeasurable. “[They] might be motivated to try new recipes, techniques, or fillings,” she says, especially when your taco lover also has just the right piece to hold them in place during assembly.

$99 (Set of 2) Wine Enthusiast

Personalized 14.5” Wine Bottle Ebony Pepper Mill and Natural Salt Mill Set

Wine pros and enthusiasts alike can often be on the receiving end of a variety of novelty, wine-shaped or themed gifts, but these salt and pepper shakers have simple day-to-day functionality that’s bound to spark joy. “These are a creative way to impart function in our world,” says Leo Braddock, Winemaker for Walla Walla’s Quarky Wines, “while also being fun, unique, and a thoughtful gift.” In order words, just a dash of the right kind of vino novelty. The professional quality wood shakers are built with top-quality mechanisms for precise grinding and laser engraved with an exclusive vineyard label with your wine’ lover’s name.

$199 Wine Enthusiast

Best Gifts for Wine On-the-Go

Vino-Voyage TSA-Approved 6-Bottle Wine Suitcase

“Great wine suitcases are a travel gift many don’t realize they need, or that even exist,” says Braddock “For the person that has it all, or even someone just getting started in wine, a great wine case is a must. This TSA-approved rolling suitcase comes with removable, customizable foam inserts that safely “cocoon” bottles while in transit. It’s ideal for intrepid wine travelers who enjoy destination food and wine tastings, or for those that love to bring bottles home from their latest journey. Its utility isn’t limited to transporting wine. The inserts can be removed so they can pack belongings for all their travel plans.

$199 Wine Enthusiast

Buffalo Leather Wine Bags

No more toting their best bottles around in ordinary disposable or utilitarian canvas bags to BYOB restaurants, tastings and parties. The wine lover on your list deserves a style and substance upgrade. “Fine leather and fine wine have something in common,” says Weitzenhoffer. “Leather says I care about what I put into this bag, and like wine, it becomes more beautiful with age. Plus, it’s durable and won’t rip under the weight.”

Buffalo Leather 3-Bottle Patchwork Wine Bag

Made from top-quality full-grain Buffalo hide that ages beautifully over time, this patchwork wine bag carries bottles with a luxurious Boho style. It comes complete with a leather pouch, waiter’s corkscrew and a padded bottle insert to keep bottles from clinking when traveling. The best part? The insert can be removed to use the bag as a standard fashion tote for a two-in-one gift!

$129 Wine Enthusiast

Buffalo Leather Messenger Style 6-Bottle Weekender Wine Bag

Part wine bag, part messenger bag, part weekender – this handsome bag is ideal for the multi-tasking wine lover. Also made from strong, supple full grain Buffalo leather and equipped with removable padded bottle inserts, it can easily tote everything from their favorite libations to laptops and personal belongings. The padded shoulder strap makes for comfortable carrying when commuting or traveling and it comes with a waiter’s corkscrew and aerator for enjoying wine on-the-go. A leather tag can also be personalized for a bespoke wine gift.

$199 Wine Enthusiast

The post 16 Expert-Approved Food and Wine Gifts You Won’t Find Just Anywhere appeared first on Wine Enthusiast.

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25 Best Host/Hostess Gifts for Wine Lovers and Whiskey Buffs https://www.wineenthusiast.com/handpicked/best-hostess-gifts/ Thu, 26 Oct 2023 20:03:11 +0000 https://www.wineenthusiast.com/?p=161364 Ditch the obligatory bottle this holiday. From glassware to drinks-inspired games, here are unforgettable wine gifts for your favorite hosts. [...]

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Heading to a holiday party, or staying with family for a celebration? You don’t want to show up empty-handed. “Entertaining is hard work,” says etiquette coach Tami Claytor, owner of Always Appropriate Image & Etiquette Consulting. Bringing a gift “acknowledges the effort the host made in advance of your arrival.” Wine is always welcome (and here are some suggestions), or a nice bottle of whiskey if that’s more your host’s vibe. But if you want to make an impression, think beyond the bottle. Here are 25 gift ideas to dazzle hosts and hostesses who love to sip and entertain.

Shop by Category:

Glassware

Tableware

Storage and Serving

Fun and Games


Glassware

Personalized Somm Pinot Noir Handblown Wine Glass

This gorgeous glass is one of the best for the connoisseur of big red wines. Tested and selected by People as the best for swirling wine, and a favorite of Wine Enthusiast magazine Tasting Director Anna Christina Cabrales, it is meticulously designed with a wide bowl and flared rim to open up wines and enhance aromas. Incredible light and thin-walled, Somm stemware can be personalized with a family name and initial to make a surprisingly exquisite gift that any discerning wine-loving host will really treasure.

$120 (Set of 2) Wine Enthusiast

Pirouette XL Cabernet Wine Glass

Versatile yet elegant stemware that’s dishwasher-safe and scratch-resistant, Pirouette glasses are a dream for any host or hostess: Stylish and practical makes it particularly thoughtful. The limited-edition XL Cabernet wine glass is generously sized to hold almost a bottle of wine and is a best-seller with wine drinkers who love its impressive size and stature. Customer William C. notes, “These were outstanding glasses that make drinking wine now a class event. Perfect gift.”

$25 Wine Enthusiast

Norlan Rauk Heavy Tumbler

Named for an Old Scottish word for “rock,” this tumbler by Norlan is beloved by whiskey fans for a contemporary look and timeless appeal. Solid and made of molded crystal, the geometric base was developed to optimize the imbibing experience of simple chilled spirits. But the chevron pattern also lends itself well to muddled cocktails by providing friction points to grip ingredients. “The weighty feel of this tumbler is incredibly satisfying,” according to buyer Joseph M. “These tumblers hold a place of honor in my cabinet. Best scotch glass ever!” 

$50 Wine Enthusiast

Personalized Reclaimed Barrel Whiskey Flight Set

For whiskey buffs who love to entertain, a one-of-a-kind whiskey flight tray handcrafted from the staves of reclaimed bourbon barrels will live on for many holidays. No two pieces of seasoned wood are the same, and each is laser-etched with a family’s name and “the whiskey bar.” Personalizing something can be “a slam-dunk gift,” says Patrick Kucharson, founder of the Better Gift Coach newsletter. “I’m a big fan of keepsake gifts,” he says. It comes complete with four Glencairn glasses –a favorite for tasting whiskeys.

$99.95 Wine Enthusiast

Tableware

Barrel-Inspired Wine Country Flatware Caddy

For the holiday host who always puts out an impressive buffet, our best-selling Barrel-Inspired Flatware Caddy is sure to impress. Its rustic wine country style brings casual elegance—and a purpose—to any gathering, with four compartments to hold plenty of forks, knives, spoons and napkins. The rugged leather handle and refined natural grain make it perfect for outdoor entertaining, too. Crafted with tasteful gold rivets, you can also personalize it to create a distinctive host gift.

$79.95 Wine Enthusiast

Acacia Wood and Marble Lazy Susan Set

Put a surprising new spin on hostess gifting with this 16-piece serving set. With removable marble insets you can chill in the fridge before serving, utensils and ceramic bowls, it’s an unforgettable gift for anyone who loves to entertain. One of the best host gifts the Better Gift Coach has personally received was a wooden board accompanied by a selection of cheeses. “Every time we use that board, we think about the person who gave it to us,” Kucharson says.

$199 Wine Enthusiast

Reclaimed Bourbon Barrel S’mores Roasting Station

This family-friendly favor that will spark all sorts of fun wine and whiskey pairing adventures any time of year. The tray, made from a retired Kentucky bourbon barrel, has room for all the s’mores fixings and comes with four extendable roasting forks and a small cast-iron pot. It’s equipped with a Sterno flame for roasting marshmallows, but the seasoned crock can also be used to serve fondue, hot caramel dip, and more. Customer Julie G. says it’s “super cool” and and “excellent gift idea for those who have everything.”

$169.95 Wine Enthusiast

Cheesy Puns Individual Cheese Boards Set

Perfect for serving wine and cheese pairings, ornamental boards carved with sayings like “Life is Gouda” and “Cheddar Together” are “versatile and fun!” writes customers Sarah F., and sure to amuse your friends and family. Crafted from quality mango wood and paired with hand-painted wooden knives, the Cheesy Puns set includes six individual-sized boards. Make cheesy puns your hallmark this holiday season by gifting each eight-inch board as individual host and hostess gifts.

$79 (Set of 6) Wine Enthusiast

Storage and Serving

Wine Entusiast x L’Atelier du Vin Glossy Black and Wood Oeno Motion Corkscrew

This Wine Enthusiast exclusive collaboration with L’Atelier du Vin makes opening wine bottles effortless — and elegant. Designed by the experts at France’s premiere maker of tools for fine wine, the ergonomic handle, vertical-lever design and integrated foil cutter are easy to use and made from luxurious materials that stand the test of time. The solid walnut handle can also be personalized for a truly treasured gift.

$170 Wine Enthusiast

Wine Enthuiast x Cheer Moda Electric Sparkling Wine Opener

For the lover of sparkling wine who has everything, this first-of-its kind wine opener is guaranteed to be one of their favorite gifts of the season. Designed to offset the impact of high pressure sparkling wine bottles, it safely extracts corks with just the touch of a button. It also comes with an airtight Champagne stopper to save those precious bubbles in unfinished bottles. Slim and powered by AA batteries, it’s much easier than manually opening bottles of bubbly, and far more practical than a saber.

$79 Wine Enthusiast

Authentic Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Cocktail Smoker Kit

Give the aficionado a new way to experience whiskey with this show-stopping table topper. “I think this is the first gift I have given him that he really enjoyed,” customer Susan S. writes in her review about her son-in-law. Aromatic wood shavings sourced from retired wine and whiskey barrels come with the self-contained smoker to infuse drinks with flavor, texture and depth. The element looks cool no matter what, but the barrel wood board can also be customized.

$129 Wine Enthusiast

Recanter Wine Breather Decanter

If you have a friend who always shares a few nice bottles when you visit their home, consider giving the Recanter Wine Breather as a host or hostess gift. This sommelier-style decanter rebottles unfinished wine without a spill, and stores it with excellent aeration to extend its freshness. “Easily decant a bottle of wine… by placing the bottle over the decanter, then reverse the process and double decant the wine directly into the bottle,” explains one 5-star reviewer. “No mess.”

$49.95 Wine Enthusiast

Cascade Wine Decanter with Aerating Pourer

From the Wine Enthusiast Art Series, the Cascade decanter is a system of natural aeration that looks beautiful on any table. Pouring wine into the handblown scalloped glass vessel produces a waterfall effect which is gorgeous to behold and also accelerates air circulation to enhance flavor and aroma. Picking a bottle to give with this host or hostess gift? Remember to keep these guidelines in mind when deciding whether or not to decant wine.

$69 Wine Enthusiast

Flame Decanter

Part stunning abstract sculpture and part-lead-free crystal wine carafe, the Flame Decanter is a statement piece that serves a purpose. New this season to the Wine Enthusiast Art Series, this attractive decanter entwines handblown glass spouts like an infinity symbol from wine bottle to glass. Lending sophisticated style to the scientific art of opening up wines, the exquisite design also makes an impressive showpiece.

$99 Wine Enthusiast

Art Series Deluxe Wine Tower Decanting Set

For the host with the most, this deluxe wine decanting set is the ultimate accessory. Standing nearly two feet tall and sized to hold as many bottles of wine, the complete set includes a polished wood stand, a spiral glass funnel and aerator, a decanter and black stainless steel drip tray for elegant entertaining. The show-stopping wine service system is sure to make an impression on any wine lover who truly enjoys the art of entertaining—and a perfect glass of wine.

$129 Wine Enthusiast

Electric Blue Omega Designer Series All-In-One Wine System

This gift includes everything you need to enjoy wine at home, from an automatic corkscrew and vacuum-sealing preserver to a fashionable bottle chiller. This seven-piece set also includes a wine dispenser and aerator, two vacuum stoppers, foil cutter, bottle chiller, and a charging base with a storage drawer and USB cord that sits neatly on the counter. It’s a best-seller in black marble and also comes in a red ombré finish to fit different tastes.

$79.99 Wine Enthusiast

Stainless Steel Ice Mold Bottle Chiller

A functional and fun addition to any event, a bottle chiller formed from sparkling ice seems especially perfect for any holiday party. The stainless steel ice mold turns water into an elegant bottle holder that’s sustainable and efficient to use, set atop a stainless steel coaster for extended life of the ice and easy cleanup. Hosts can add ornaments, fruit, flowers or other decorative elements to the water before freezing to bring their individual flair to the table.

$44.99 Wine Enthusiast

VoChill Wine Glass Chiller

Insulated glasses are an innovation when it comes to keeping wine at the proper temperature, but something is lost in the overall sensory experience when you can’t see the juice in the glass. VoChill innovates in this arena with individual wine chillers designed to work with most standard stemmed glasses. There’s also a version for stemless glasses. Both sets of two chillers feature a freezable cradle made of hand-washable polycarbonate with a detachable, non-slip base. Stemless option available here.

$79.95 Wine Enthusiast

Wine Enthusiast 6-Bottle Wine Cooler

To up your gift-giving game, etiquette consultant Claytor says to ask yourself, “what does the person want but wouldn’t buy for themselves because it’s perceived as a luxury?” We think this cutie from our compact cooler collection checks all the boxes. A countertop wine fridge that stores up to six standard Bordeaux bottles would be a game-changing gift for any apartment dweller, worker from home, or downsizing empty-nester.

$129 Wine Enthusiast

Wine Enthusiast 32-Bottle Dual Zone MAX Compressor Wine Cooler

The top-choice wine fridge according to The New York Times, Wirecutter and Food & Wine, our Dual Zone coolers keep a selection of reds and whites ready to drink. The freestanding refrigerator that fits 32 bottles is popular for its energy-efficient, quiet operation and consistent, controllable temperature zones. Bridging longer-term bottle storage with short-term chilling, this cooler is a solution any budding wine collector is sure to love.

$499 Wine Enthusiast

Fun and Games

Napa Valley Edition Monopoly

Maybe giving a piece of real estate is wishful thinking, but you can share a slice of Napa Valley with any Monopoly fan this season. This beautiful edition of the beloved board game is populated with properties and picturesque views from northern California’s wine country. Napa Valley Monopoly would be an entertaining host or hostess gift for a favorite travel companion, or for the family who always hosts game night.

$44.99 Wine Enthusiast

Personalized Tabletop Four In A Row Game

The best gifts evoke in adults the feeling they had opening presents as children,” Claytor says. We can imagine any recipient of tabletop tic-tac-toe will feel just like a kid again, inevitably eager to play as soon as they open it. This Four In a Row Game is classic in all the right ways, making it fun for family game nights as well as more spirited gatherings. A solid pine setup with a detachable base made of tannin-touched oak barrel staves, the set includes birchwood playing chips in Champagne and Burgundy and optional laser-engraved personalization.

$299 Wine Enthusiast

Santa and Elf Wine Gift Bags

These boots are made for toting around the best hostess gifts: Wine! Priced at under just under $50, this set of two bottle bags is adorably stylized as Santa and elf shoes for holiday gifting. The waterproof, neoprene gift bags fit standard, 750-milliliter bottles and keep wine chilled for up to four hours.

$129 Wine Enthusiast

Full Grain Buffalo Leather and Sherpa-Lined 2-Bottle Wine Bag

Your fashionable wine- loving hosts can go over river and through the woods with this durable wine tote, which insulates and secures two bottles in fleecy sherpa lining. The exterior and handles are made from luxuriously soft yet strong buffalo leather which will age gracefully over time to become a long-lasting favorite. An exterior pocket for storage contains a handy waiter’s corkscrew so they’ll always be prepared to uncork their favorite wines wherever they are.

$99 Wine Enthusiast

Canvas Wine Bottle Gift Bags Set

Before any holiday season stress sets in, snag these festive wine bottle gift bags and have host gifts ready for any occasion. The set of five, 100% cotton bags with leather drawstrings are printed with celebratory sayings like “Toast for the host” and “Let’s drink to that.” They’re durable enough for multiple uses, so it’s a bonus gift for your recipient along with a hand-picked bottle.

$39 Wine Enthusiast

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Wine Enthusiast Staff Picks for the Best Holiday Gifts of 2023 https://www.wineenthusiast.com/handpicked/holiday-gifts-staff-picks/ Wed, 25 Oct 2023 20:53:57 +0000 https://www.wineenthusiast.com/?p=161629 Make your list, check it twice—then find the perfect holiday gifts recommended by our team of pro tasters and everyday wine lovers. [...]

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Some things just make sense—like showering friends and family with wine-themed gifts. That’s especially true if you work at Wine Enthusiast.

This year, we gathered input from our team of on-staff oenophiles to determine the best wine gifts for this holiday season. From ordinary corkscrews and glassware to a family-approved Napa Valley Monopoly board game, here are our top picks.


What We’re Gifting This Year

Art Series Deluxe Wine Tower Decanting Set

“Opening a bottle of wine with family and friends has become such a fun shared experience with this decanter. I put this right in the middle of the table and watch the science of aerating unfold in front of everyone’s eyes!” — John Burke, Executive Director of Customer Experience

$129 Wine Enthusiast

Recanter Wine Breather Decanter

“We love to BYOB at our local restaurant for date night. After years of collecting, I like to make sure whatever special gem we bring has enough time to open for optimum enjoyment. I won’t take credit for this idea — one of our happy customers recommended using the Recanter Wine Breather Decanter to aerate the wine an hour before you leave and then rebottle it. We pop the cork back in and head to the restaurant for a perfect experience with one of our prized bottles outside of our home!” — Jacqueline Strum, President and Publisher of Wine Enthusiast Media

$49.95 Wine Enthusiast

Wine Enthusiast x L’Atelier du Vin Oeno Corkscrew

“I adore the L’Atelier du Vin corkscrews and this new model takes the pleasure of a smooth opening to a new level! I never have to worry about tight corks because this corkscrew is strong as steel. It also looks beautiful on the table.” — Erika Strum Silberstein, President, Wine Enthusiast Commerce

$170 Wine Enthusiast

Wine Enthusiast x Cheer Moda Electric Sparkling Wine Opener

“Our new Electric Sparkling Wine Opener is like a dream come true for me. I’ve always been a bubbles fan with a secret fear of opening a bottle on my own as I pictured corks flying and injuring my friends. Now I can enjoy sparkling wine anytime without any worries.” — Sybil Strum, Co-Founder and Chief Brand Officer

$79 Wine Enthusiast

You May Also Like: Opening Champagne and Sparkling Wine Bottles Just Got Easier

Wine Enthusiast Somm Universal Handblown Wine Glass

“When I entertain at home, I love making a statement with glassware. The Somm universal glass is not only gorgeous but helps me transition between sparkling, white and even full-bodied reds with ease. And though these glasses are surprisingly lightweight, they can handle the dishwasher, making clean-up super simple.” — Anna Christina Cabrales, Wine Enthusiast magazine Tasting Director

$40 Each Wine Enthusiast

Pirouette Break-Resistant Universal Wine Glasses

“I love how elegant these glasses feel when drinking out of them. They also make a beautiful display of glassware waiting for your guests on the table. They are so versatile, and I don’t have to worry about any breakage when hosting.” — Michelle Shkreli, Merchandising and Product Development Manager

$25 Each Wine Enthusiast

Reclaimed Wine Barrel Head Golf Ball Display Shelf

“Wine + Golf = Perfection!  I can’t think of a better holiday gift for wine and golf lovers!” — Glenn Edelman, Chief Marketing Officer

$179 Wine Enthusiast

Reclaimed Wine Barrel Backyard Golf Set

“I love cornhole as much as the next person. But to be able to take that game to the next level and add the precision of the golf short game is just pure genius. It’s such a fun game to have for those backyard barbecues for all my golf-loving friends to enjoy!” — Marshall Tilden III, Chief Revenue and Education Officer

$429 Wine Enthusiast

Personalized Large Tabletop Four In A Row Game

“This game checks the entertainment box for holiday hosting. It’s a statement piece that evokes nostalgia. Guests immediately feel comfortable sitting down to play while enjoying their wine. Conversation and friendly competition soon follow.” — Bonnary Lek, Director of Public Relations

$299 Wine Enthusiast

Monopoly Napa Valley Edition Board Game

“Some of my fondest childhood memories include playing endless games of Monopoly with my dad who was the only person capable of seeing the game through till the very end, even if he went broke. Now that I have the privilege of working in the wine industry, I love the idea of introducing the joy of one of my favorite games—and locations—to my kids.” — Dara P. Kapoor, Vice President of Content

$44.99 Wine Enthusiast

Canvas Wine Bottle Gifts Bags (Set of 5)

“A perfect way to go to your many holiday parties with a bottle of wine. These awesome canvas wine bags have different saying to match any mood and are all secured with a leather tie.” Barbara Gianis, Senior Director of Circulation and Print 

$39 Wine Enthusiast

Full Grain Buffalo Leather and Sherpa-Lined 2-Bottle Wine Bag

“I use these bags to go everywhere. I love how you can disguise what’s in the bag and when you arrive at your destination and pull your bottles out you automatically become the coolest person in the room! The leather is so rich, and it just gets better with time. I’ve gifted them and people are always impressed. It helps that it comes with a wine opener too.” — Nancy Essapour, Senior Director of Merchandising

$99 Wine Enthusiast

Vino-Voyage TSA-Approved 6-Bottle Wine Suitcase

“While this suitcase was meant for air travel, I’m actually using it every week to bring wine to family dinners. Bottles are heavy, and those wheels are a game changer.” — Marco Bruno, Social Media Strategist

$199 Wine Enthusiast

The post Wine Enthusiast Staff Picks for the Best Holiday Gifts of 2023 appeared first on Wine Enthusiast.

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Our Best Wine Glasses, According to Pros and Reviews https://www.wineenthusiast.com/handpicked/best-wine-glasses/ Sat, 14 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.wineenthusiast.com/?p=160709 Find the perfect glass for every occasion and varietal. See our best wine glasses, used and reviewed by wine pros and customers. [...]

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At first glance, selecting proper glassware may seem like a daunting task, given all of the different types of wine glasses on the market. And while you might have a favorite mug, stein or goblet for other beverages, wine deserves specific glasses that will enhance your tasting experience.

Whether you enjoy sipping from a handblown glass, prefer the convenience of a short-stem wine glass, or need a set for entertaining, the options are plentiful. To help you choose the glass that best suits your taste and needs, we’ve rounded up the top wine glasses used and reviewed by our customers and wine pros.

Best Red Wine Glass for Full-Bodied Reds

Aria Cabernet Sauvignon Handblown Wine Glasses

Light, durable, and incredibly thin, the large bowl on this glass offers a decanting effect for big, bold red wines like Merlot and Cabernet. Josh Farrell, the Wine Director of Wine Express, uses the Aria Cabernet wine glass for his video tastings and says it’s his go-to glass, no matter what wine he’s drinking.

“Light as air, the ample size is ideal for letting the wine open up and express itself,” says Farrell. He’s not alone. Customers also regularly give this glass five-star reviews, commenting on its lightweight feel and versatility.

  • Material: Fine lead-free crystal
  • Capacity: 29 oz.
  • Top Perks: Extremely lightweight, versatility

$30 Wine Enthusiast

Best Pinot Noir Glass

Somm Pinot Noir Handblown Wine Glasses

Handblown by 15 master glassmakers, the finely tuned design and attractive price point of these wine glasses have made them a top pick for shoppers and sommeliers alike. Anna Christina Cabrales, Tasting Director at Wine Enthusiast magazine, uses them exclusively for her Rhône and Burgundy tastings.

“The flared lip and bowl help coax delicate non-fruit and floral nuances in young Burgundy,” she shared. Customers also repeatedly give it five stars for its luxurious design and wine-enhancing ability. Suitable for Pinot Noirs and oaked Chardonnays, it offers a high-end tasting experience at an accessible price.

  • Material: Fine lead-free crystal
  • Capacity: 27.4 oz.
  • Top Perks: Fine tasting experience at a great price point

$40 Wine Enthusiast

Best Universal Wine Glass

Wine Enthusiast Fleur Handblown Universal Wine Glasses

If you’re looking for a unique wine glass for every occasion and varietal, consider the Wine Enthusiast Fleur Universal. Their distinctive shape, dimpled bottoms and large swirl-enhancing bowls elevate the flavors and aromas of any wine, from Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio to Bordeaux and Cabernet. Customers are especially drawn to its fashionable design, sharing in reviews that they are “beautifully proportioned” and “great for formal dinners,” while others also comment they “enhance the experience of drinking fine wines” and “make all wines taste better.”

  • Material: Fine lead-free crystal
  • Capacity: 17.6 oz.
  • Top Perks: Unique design suitable for all occasions

$120 (Set of 2) Wine Enthusiast

Best Short Stem Wine Glasses

Fusion Air Short Stem Taste Wine Glasses

This handblown short stem wine glass is the official tasting glass for Wine Enthusiast magazine’s tasting panel and is loved by customers and wine pros for its easy elegant use, versatility and dishwasher-friendly size. Handblown from crystal glass with a universal bowl and a stable flat foot – its airy feel and thin walls deliver a more luxurious feel to the casual drinking experience. “I love the Fusion Air wine glasses,’ says Marshall Tilden, III, DWS, CSW, Director of Education at Wine Enthusiast and head of Wine Enthusiast Academy, who uses them for most whites and reds and all the WSET tastings he does from home. “I can store these glasses so easily in my cabinets and because they are low to the table, it makes them a lot harder to accidentally knock over and break,” he adds.

  • Material: Fine lead-free crystal
  • Capacity: 16 oz.
  • Top Perks: Versatile, easy to use and care for, fits easily in the dishwasher

$60 (Set of 4) Wine Enthusiast

You May Also Like: Are Stemless Wine Glasses Any Good? We Investigate

Best Large Wine Glass

Wine Enthusiast Pirouette Break-Resistant Cabernet Sauvignon Limited Edition 740ml XL Wine Glass

If you’re looking for an elegant wine glass with a more confident feel and modern look, consider the break-resistant Pirouette XL.  It’s machine-blown to mimic the look and feel of fine handblown glassware and boasts a notably tall V-shaped bowl that allows the aromas and flavors of full-bodied wines to shine.

Die-hard Cabernet fans enjoy the generously sized bowl and fine, cold-cut rim—fitting for patio wine downs or pairing with your favorite grilled steak or cheese board. Stunning on the table or in your hand, one online shopper commented, “They carry a beautiful tone,” regarding the crystal-like chime these glasses make when pinged.”

  • Material: Fine lead-free crystal
  • Capacity: 740 ml
  • Top Perks: Break- and scratch-resistant, elegantly tall bowl

$25 Wine Enthusiast

Best Personalized Wine Glasses for Gifting

Personalized Somm Cabernet Sauvignon Handblown Wine Glass (Set of 2)

Praised for their beautiful personalization and wine-enhancing experience, these wine glasses are recommended by customers as a “great gift for any wine lover.” The fine thin walls of the bowl are meticulously personalized by hand using the sandblast etching technique, resulting in an exquisite one-of-a-kind wine gift. Available in Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Universal varietals, ZENOLOGY SOMM wine glasses are handblown in Europe with wide swirl-enhancing bowls and a thin flared lip that delivers fresher, more defined notes to the palate. According to one shopper, Jodi, “the personalization is beautiful…. the wine experience is better.”

  • Material: Fine lead-free crystal
  • Capacity: 22 oz.
  • Top Perks: Unique gift, sandblast-etched personalization

$120 (Set of 2) Wine Enthusiast

The post Our Best Wine Glasses, According to Pros and Reviews appeared first on Wine Enthusiast.

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Opening Champagne and Sparkling Wine Bottles Just Got Easier https://www.wineenthusiast.com/handpicked/electric-sparkling-wine-opener/ Fri, 13 Oct 2023 18:32:54 +0000 https://www.wineenthusiast.com/?p=160749 The world’s first electric sparkling wine opener is here and it will change the way you open bubbly for good. [...]

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Popping open a bottle of Champagne or sparkling wine is one of the most common joys in life. But first there’s the fear of doing it incorrectly and losing precious liquid in a spillover or worse, accidentally allowing a flying cork to hit someone in the eye. “The flying cork is fully real,” says Wine Enthusiast Senior Tasting Coordinator Cody Wexler. “I got distracted pouring one time. Next thing I know the cork is ejected at high speed into the ceiling.”

It takes a series of careful steps and practice to properly uncork a bottle of sparkling wine and not everyone is up for that kind of pressure. “It’s not the easiest method to employ—and certainly not the quickest,” says Wine Enthusiast Senior Editor Stacy Briscoe, who regularly teaches students at Napa Valley Wine Academy the proper technique.

Enter the exclusive Wine Enthusiast x Cheer Moda Electric Sparkling Wine Opener. The first and only automatic wine opener for sparkling wine, it takes the guesswork and anxiety out of uncorking those highly pressurized bottles so you can effortlessly enjoy well-chilled sparkling wine in less time. Here are six reasons why this innovative wine gadget is a must-have.

Electric Sparkling Opener
Wine Enthusiast

1. A Safer, Gentler “Pop” that Preserves Bubbles

Contrary to the popular portrayal of loud, frothy openings, Brisco says the cork should disengage with a little hiss, not a “pop” to safely enjoy sparkling wine at its best. Unlike other automatic wine openers, the Wine Enthusiast Electric Sparkling Wine Opener is specially designed with a double layer structure for protection and noise reduction. It also includes a buffer system to offset the high air pressure, uncorking bottles with minimal release of CO2 and preserving those precious bubbles.

2. Quicker, Simpler Openings

After you remove the foil and cage (or muselet) from the cork, you’ll be able to easily open your bubbly in seconds. Just hold the bottle with one hand, making sure to secure the cork with your thumb. Using the other hand, gently push the device onto the neck as you simultaneously press the button to extract the cork. Simply press the button again to release it.

3. It’s Easy on the Hands

Manually opening sparkling wine bottles takes some dexterity and strength of the hands, which can be tiresome when entertaining or difficult for weak or arthritic hands. “Opening the foil and cage over and over when you’re doing sparkling flights is very taxing on the hands,” adds Wexler who has had to resort to wearing workout gloves to help ease his discomfort when doing tastings. The electric opener is smooth to the touch, easy to grasp and cuts the usual manual work required in half.

4. It Comes With a Sparkling Wine Bottle Stopper

If you find yourself with unfinished bubbly, Wexler says it can be kept fresh for a few days with an airtight seal. The included stopper has a rotating locking design to contain increasing air pressure inside the bottle that may occur and preserves the sparkling wine’s effervescence and flavor for up to three days.

5. It’s Efficient and Portable

It uncorks up to 180 bottles with just four AA batteries, so you don’t have to be troubled by charging wires or bases, and can easily be tucked into a travel bag or drawer. Made from high-grade stainless steel, it’s corrosion-resistant, easy to clean and boasts a durable sophisticated finish that will endure many openings.

6. It’s the First of Its Kind

Whether you’re a wine pro or just a lover of bubbly, the Electric Sparkling Wine Opener delivers a much-needed convenience that every wine drinker will appreciate and is sure to be a big hit when entertaining or gifting. “There’s nothing I hate more than being trapped outside of a good bottle of Champagne,” says Briscoe who has added the wine opener to her holiday wish list.

The post Opening Champagne and Sparkling Wine Bottles Just Got Easier appeared first on Wine Enthusiast.

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The 12 Best Wine Coolers and Fridges for Every Kind of Collector https://www.wineenthusiast.com/basics/buying-and-collecting/best-wine-coolers-and-fridges/ Fri, 13 Oct 2023 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.wineenthusiast.com/?p=152721 Find the best wine cooler for your collection! From casual sippers to serious collectors, our curated list caters to every type of drinker. [...]

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From your favorite weeknight Chardonnay to that special bottle of Pinot Noir or Champagne you’ve stashed away, the wines you enjoy and collect deserve nothing but the best storage conditions. And let’s face it, you won’t achieve them by stashing your bottles in a kitchen cupboard, or worse, leaving them exposed to fluctuating temperatures and light in your garage or on your kitchen counter.

Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a serious collector, a wine cooler is a worthy investment. Also known as wine refrigerators or wine cellars, wine coolers are specially designed to keep your bottles at the ideal temperatures for drinking and aging, and to protect them against their natural enemies: temperature fluctuations, low humidity, light, vibration and odor.  

While some wine coolers are designed for long-term storage and extreme ambient temperatures, others offer unique features for entertaining, small collections, and showcasing your wine. Which one is right for you? 

To help you answer that question, we’ve rounded up our 12 best wine coolers of 2024 for every kind of drinker and need.

Best Wine Cooler for Serious Collectors

EuroCave Revelation L Wine Cellar

“Devoted to maturing wine, The EuroCave Revelation is a popular cellar choice for avid wine collectors and upscale restaurants and hospitality establishments around the world,” says Marshall Tilden III, DWS, CSW, Chief Education and Revenue Officer of Wine Enthusiast. And with good reason. In addition to advanced climate control features like a humidity cassette and hygrometer (to control and measure humidity levels), thermal-insulated walls and a circulation fan (to regulate temperature), it features soft-close Main du Sommelier sliding shelves with adjustable bottle supports that allow you to store all sizes and types of bottles in a variety of ways. Plus, luxurious design details, like full-cabinet amber lighting, metal name plates and an optional presentation shelf. “I love how customizable the wine is and (how) the temperature keeps +/-0.5,” says customer Phillip M.  “It’s whisper-quiet and beautifully finished.” While it’s priced on the higher side, customers say this top-notch cellar is “worth every penny!”

  • Price at time of publication: $6,995 – $7,495
  • Temperature Setting Range: 41°F – 68°F
  • Max Capacity: 182 standard 750 mL bottles

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Design the Wine Cellar of Your Dreams!

Whether you have a few cases or a few thousand bottles, our team of professional Wine Storage Consultants can help.

Best Compact Wine Cooler

Wine Enthusiast 32-Bottle Dual Zone MAX Compressor Wine Cooler

“If you are looking for a true (wine) refrigerator and a good one, this is it,” says customer Carl G. Named “Best Wine Cooler” by Food & Wine, Forbes, People, New York MagazineGood Housekeeping and Cosmopolitan, the 32-Bottle Dual Zone MAX repeatedly receives rave reviews from wine pros and drinkers for its quiet performance, compact size and value. “This wine cooler is outstanding!,” says customer Eric E. “It is the perfect size for our home as it gives us plenty of room and keeps our reds and whites at the perfect temperature.” Customers especially love its unique dual zone storage, which allows you to set each zone to different temperatures for reds and whites, or to the same temperature to be used as a single zone cooler. With its sleek design, removable chrome racks, tinted door and approachable price point, it’s great for avid wine drinkers working with minimal space or anyone looking to easily upgrade their at-home wine enjoyment without breaking the bank.

  • Price at time of publication: $499
  • Temperature Setting Range: 41°F – 64°F (Both zones)
  • Max Capacity: 32 standard 750 mL bottles

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Best Mini Wine Cooler

Wine Enthusiast 6-Bottle Wine Cooler

Named “best” cooler by Cosmopolitan for keeping your wines chilled, this tiny yet mighty wine fridge sets up easily on a kitchen counter, bar or desk so that you’ll always be ready to pour your favorite varietals at their ideal temperatures. Sized at just 15 inches tall and 10 inches wide, it fits seamlessly under kitchen cabinets.  It also has an impressive ambient temperature range of 60°F – 80°F—great for warmer climates. Reviewers call it “perfect,” recommending it for apartments, RVs and kitchens. Its mini size and budget-friendly price also make it a great wine gift. “I knew it was the perfect gift because it holds six bottles (which is just enough), it doesn’t have a huge footprint, and I loved the look of it.”

  •  Price at time of publication: $149
  • Temperature Setting Range: 46°F – 64°F
  • Max Capacity: 6 standard 750 mL bottles

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Best Wine Cooler for Entertaining

N’FINITY PRO HDX Wine Cellar with Dual Drawer Beverage Cooler

If you’re looking for the convenience of having both wine and cold beverages on hand for everyday sipping and entertaining, this cooler is a solid choice. With its stylish beechwood shelves and dual-purpose design, this unit works beautifully as a freestanding wine fridge or a built-in unit. The top wine cooler features showcase shelving with luxury spacing for easy access, while two bottom drawers keep dozens of hard seltzers, beer, sodas and other cold drinks organized and ready to drink. Powered by energy-efficient compressor cooling, it provides a consistent temperature, keeping your electricity bills down to free up resources to spend on the wines you love. Customer Barbara T. calls it a “must have” for wine lovers, sharing, “The wine cellar is quiet …the shelves are sturdy and easy to pull out—there is plenty of room in the beverage drawers; I wish I had bought it sooner.”

  •  Price at time of publication: $1,999
  • Temperature Setting Range: 41°F – 72°F (Both wine cellar and beverage drawers); Beverage drawers can be reset to 34°F if desired.
  • Max Capacity: 64 standard 750 mL bottles; approx. 100 standard 12 oz. cans

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Best Wine Cooler for the Kitchen

Latitude S Panel-Ready 24″ Smart Wi-Fi Undercounter Wine Cellar

Talk about a perfect fit. This newest rendition of our best-selling N’FINITY S wine cellar allows you to install your own custom-made front door panels and handle to match your kitchen cabinets to a tee. Available in left and right hinge options to suit the function of your space, this unit has everything you’d want in a kitchen wine cooler, including universal shelves with luxury spacing that accommodate all types of bottles and three-stage lighting.  And with a sound level rating of 39 dBA, it also runs quieter than the average dishwasher.

  • Price at time of publication: $1,299
  • Temperature Setting Range: 41°F- 72°F
  • Max Capacity: 250 standard 750 mL bottles

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Best Wine Cooler for Basement or Garage

Wine Enthusiast Classic 250-Bottle Wine Vault

Designed to protect wine in extreme ambient temperatures of 50 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, this freestanding cooler is ideal for wine collectors living in warmer climates or who need extra space for preserving red wines. Eric M. writes in his review, “Perfect for my wine collection, especially in my garage because I live in Florida; the vault’s insulation requires less energy.” It features a locking solid insulated door, charcoal filter for bad odors and beechwood shelves that accommodate all bottle types and sizes. And although it’s a powerful vault that’s designed for extreme environments, it still makes an elegant, refined presentation thanks to its showcase shelves and full-cabinet LED lighting. After having it in their garage for a few months, Adrezej C. is satisfied with its performance, saying it’s “functional, simple and well-priced.” Other reviewers say it’s an outstanding pick for handling cellar transfers and collection overflows.

  • Price at time of publication: $2,699.00
  • Temperature setting Range: 41°F – 72°F
  • Max Capacity: 250 standard 750 mL bottles

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Best Built-In Undercounter Wine Cooler

Presitge S 24″ Café Undercounter Smart Wi-Fi Wine Cellar

If you’re considering an undercounter wine fridge for your home, this easy-to-install unit features the necessary front ventilation along with sleek modern styling that complements modern appliances and furnishings. Formerly known as Vinotheque Cafe, it’s been named “best” wine fridge by Esquire and Liquor.com for its sleek design, great capacity and luxury touches. And customers have given it rave reviews for its quiet performance and great looks. The newly upgraded Prestige is now equipped with even more features, like two-color cabinet lighting, a humidity cassette and built-in Wi-Fi to so you can remotely control your cooler.   You can customize this fridge with a right- or left-hinged door and choose between single or dual zone to suit your collection and space.

  • Price at time of publication: $1,499
  • Temperature Setting Range – Single Zone: 41°F – 68°F; Dual Zone: 54°F – 68°F (upper) 41°F – 54°F (lower)
  • Max Capacity: 46 standard 750 mL bottles

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Best High-Capacity Wine Cooler

Classic XL 300-Bottle Wine Cellar with VinoView Shelving

Protecting a sizable wine collection in a stylish, elegant fashion is an attainable goal with this spacious wine cellar. Named a “Best Wine Fridge” by Architectural Digest, this top-selling unit is ideal for storing and displaying a collection of primarily red wines. Customers and pros especially love the beechwood showcase shelving, which allows you to display your favorite bottles label-forward. The shelving is also adjustable, making it easy to modify the fridge as your collection changes. If you’re amassing a red wine collection, this freestanding cooler is a great option, giving you the storage capacity of a small wine cellar room with room to grow. Shopper James C. shared, “A great in-house cellar. The (temperature) display is accurate to my thermostat measurement. It is as quiet as a church mouse.”

  • Price at time of publication: $2,999
  • Temperature Setting Range: 41°F – 68°F
  • Max Capacity: 300 standard 750 mL bottles

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Best Wine Cooler for Champagne

EuroCave Champagne Cabinet

For the most serious collectors of fine bubbly, this new 2023 introduction by EuroCave® is truly a thing of beauty. A nod to the French way of life, this lavish cellar is exclusively dedicated to properly storing and presenting Champagne and other sparkling wine—and it does so in an unabashedly spectacular fashion. It features a rotating “ice bucket” top shelf with elegant chrome-plated steel bottle supports for eight standard 750mL bottles or five magnums. Plus, seven universal shelves that accommodate any bottle size and type, all of which are finished in a glossy Champagne and trimmed in leather. Full-cabinet amber lighting and frameless glass door create a dramatic display that’s suited for even the most coveted bubbles. It comes with a five-year warranty–and a guaranteed wow-factor.

  • Price at time of publication: $14,995
  • Temperature Setting Range: 41°F – 54°F
  • Max Capacity: 75 standard 750 mL bottles; magnums

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Best Wine Cooler for Displaying Labels

Wine Enthusiast VinoView L 155 Smart Wi-Fi Wine Cellar

Ideal for busy wine drinkers looking for an effortless way to store and showcase their wines, our newly upgraded VinoView Wi-Fi wine cellar has it all. Using the Wine Enthusiast Remote Control App on your smart device, you can easily control and monitor your wine cooler from anywhere, at any time. It also features patented VinoView matrix shelves that hold all your bottles label-forward and smoothly pull out so you can easily access your entire collection. And unlike most other cellars, it can hold any type or size bottle without reducing the maximum capacity of your cellar. Equipped with energy-efficient Steady-Temp™ cooling technology, this unit delivers the most consistent, stable temperature so you can feel confident your wine is getting the attention it deserves, even when you can’t.

  • Price at time of publication: $2,199
  • Temperature Setting Range: 40°F – 72°F
  • Max Capacity: 155 bottles (all types/sizes)

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Best Starter Wine Cooler

Wine Enthusiast Classic 80 Wine Cellar

If you’re a budding collector looking for your first wine cellar, our Classic 80 is a top-selling pick that will grow with your collection over time. “We typically recommend purchasing a wine cellar that has at least 25-50% more capacity than your current collection,” says Tilden. Named “Best Wine Cooler” by The New York Times, this unit offers dependable protection against heat, light and fluctuating temperatures at a budget-friendly price. The freestanding, straightforward design and modest size works well in any space, and its cool blue LED lighting and wood-trimmed shelves make it one of the better-looking units in this price range. Reviewers love its quiet performance, “classy” style and value. Customer Jason shares, “It looks great and is a fantastic size for our entry-level needs.”

  • Price at time of publication: $1,099
  • Temperature Setting Range: 41°F – 68°F
  • Max Capacity: 80 standard 750 mL bottles

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You May Also Like: The Best Wine Openers for Every Occasion

Best Luxury Wine Cooler

EuroCave Royale Wine Cellar

Dedicated exclusively to maturing wine, and presenting like a fine piece of furniture, this stunning freestanding wine cabinet is the ultimate when it comes to at-home wine storage. “The EuroCave Royale is like the Rolls Royce of wine coolers. It’s the ideal fit for collectors who are looking for the most luxurious means to protect and display their wine,” says Tilden. Named “Best Wine Fridge” by Architectural Digest, the Royale takes EuroCave’s outstanding quality craftsmanship next level with shock-absorbing footings, self-closing doors, autonomous humidity and temperature regulation, and a temperature variance of just +/- .3 degrees. While its performance is bar none, let’s face it: this wine cellar is made to be proudly displayed. Along with full-cabinet amber lighting, each shelf is independently lit with LED lights and the cabinet is beautifully handcrafted with decorative panels and molding for an all- around luxurious look. “Very well made and impressive looking. If you love great wine and want to protect your investment, this machine is for you.” James Y. “

Also available in custom cabinet colors.

  • Price at time of publication: $15,995
  • Temperature Setting Range: 42.8°F – 64.4°F
  • Max Capacity: 124 standard 750 mL bottles

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