Wine With Wanda

Three Terrific Gifts for Wine Lovers

The only gift that wine lovers adore more than a great bottle of vino is an accessory that enhances the drinking experience. From techy tannin tamers to artsy bottle openers, here are three great gifts that will inspire the recipient to raise a glass in your name! 

 
The Velv Wine Oxygenator ($300) 

Decanters and aerators are the classic methods of unlocking a wine's flavor but the process can take up to a few hours for an especially "tight" wine. The Velv Wine Oxygenator can unlock a wine in just a few minutes by harnessing the power of pure oxygen. A high-tech gadget that is simple to use, just insert the Velv Wine Oxygenator into the bottle and turn it on. 99.5% pure oxygen is released into the bottle and your wine will be fully awakened and ready to enjoy in just a few minutes.


I took the Velv on a test run with a bottle of Chianti and there was a discernible difference - the tannins were softer and the aromas and flavors were heightened. With the Velv, red wines can reach their flavor peaks in about 5 to 7 minutes - dryer & fuller-bodied white wines can be prepared in about 3 to 5 minutes. The Velv has some pretty impressive fans - Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan, Master of Wine, says, "I can see the benefit of the Velv Wine Oxygenator for the casual wine enthusiast. For young, tight wines it releases aromatics, for tannic wines it can smooth those harsh edges and make it more velvety, in just minutes.” 


SAVED Wines Corkscew by Scott Campbell ($125)

Spread some "good juju" this holiday season with this gorgeous solid brass corkscrew carved with patterns and sigils created by renowned tattoo artist and SAVED Wines creator Scott Campbell. Scott's work is very inspired by symbolism and the designs on the corkscrew represent the potential to manifest inspired ideas and the focus and determination to act upon them. Truly a work of art, this gleaming & substantial corkscrew was designed in collaboration with the acclaimed Detroit based manufacturer Shinola.

Bonus gift - For a truly spectacular presentation, pair this impressive corkscrew with a bottle of robust, juicy and delicious SAVED Red Wine ($25) - a luscious blend of Merlot, Malbec, Syrah, Zinfandel, and small amounts of other red varietals. 



 The Wine Check Luggage by Lazenne ($112.50)

Shopping for wine during your travels is always a thrill but figuring out how to schlep the bottles home can be stressful. Fret no more - this nifty bag makes packing a cinch and keeps your wine safe. This specialized and lightweight airline-approved luggage can be checked onto a plane and holds 12 bottles of wine, champagne, beer, cider, hard liquor, or olive oil. A practical present with panache!  

The Sipping Season: Luigi Bosca Malbec 2010

From gift-giving to holiday soirees, wine & spirits add that extra glitter to the holiday season. So whether you are looking for the perfect vino to sip while wrapping gifts or an impressive bottle for someone special, over the next few weeks I'll be highlighting a variety of wonderful libations. 


Luigi Bosca Malbec 2010 (375ml half bottle, $16)




A rich red Malbec is a perfect choice for the holiday season and this petite half-bottle of Luigi Bosca Malbec 2010 is certain to make Santa happier than a plate of cookies!  A beautiful deep ruby red color, this full-bodied yet mellow vino has the right balance of ripe red fruit with accents of spice and pepper. Aged one year in French oak, the wine is not overly woody but has an appealing hint of chalky earthiness. Velvety and luscious, this Argentine beauty is a great match with red meat and aged cheeses. An excellent stocking stuffer for the wine-lover on your list -  not only will they be impressed by the taste but Bodega Luigi Bosca was founded in 1901 and is Argentina's oldest family owned winery. And for that really special someone, you may want to include tickets to Argentina with that bottle of wine so that they can visit the Luigi Bosca winery!

 

 

Sip Europe with Millesima's Travel Around Gift Sets of Wine

With just a sip you can take your palate on a journey, so why not embark on a delicious wine escape to Burgundy, Champagne, Bordeaux, and Italy?  Millesima's new Travel Around Gift Sets make it chic & easy to satisfy your wanderlust and taste for fine wine. Available in sets of three or six, each gift is packed in an elegant & reusable gray linen tote and includes an illustrated leaflet with information about the wines and the region.

With a three-bottle set starting at $90, this is an affordable treat for yourself and your wine loving friends. And, if you're feeling très généreux, the Travel Around Bordeaux: Connoisseur Red Wine Gift Set ($660) is bound to make a striking impression. You can be assured that the wines in the Travel Around Gift Sets are high quality - Millesima USA is the American arm of Bordeaux-based Millesima SA, a family owned business that is the leader in online sales of fine wines in Europe. Millesima's cellars in Bordeaux contain a beyond impressive 2.5 MILLION bottles, including 12,000 large format bottles - amazing!  The Travel Around Gift Sets are available online at Millesima USA or at their New York City store on the Upper East Side (1355 Second Avenue).
Hortense Bernard is the General Manager of Millesima USA and represents the fourth generation of this influential Bordeaux family. Vivacious, down-to-earth, and a true wine expert, Hortense said that she loves helping customers at the Millesima store in NYC find the perfect wine for every occasion!

Good Food is Sexy! Tempt Their Tastebuds with a Gourmet Crate from Mantry

Can foods really be qualified as masculine or feminine? The women I know delve into bratwurst and bonbons with equal gusto! However, I'm very intrigued by a new food-of-the-month club called Mantry. Described as the modern man's pantry, Mantry showcases American artisan foods like BBQ sauce from Alabama, bison jerky from Montana, and birch syrup harvested in Alaska. Mantry packs all of that tasty goodness in an eye-catching wooden crate that is hand-made in the USA. Each crate contains 5-6 full size items along with recipes and product details. Mantry gift boxes are $75 per month and you can opt for a single crate or a monthly subscription. I know that Mantry is targeting men but if any admirers out there are wondering what to send me for Valentine's Day, ship me a Mantry and keep the drugstore stuffed animals for yourself!

 

Santa Baby, Put Some Bubbly Under the Tree: Henri's Reserve Boutique Champagnes

Use code LBD and save 10% on your holiday purchase at Henri's Reserve. Their terrificTasting Sampler includes 3 bottles of gorgeous bubbly - one Blanc de Blancs, a Rosé & a Blanc de Noirs. Regular price is $195, pay $175.50 with the special discount for Black Dress Traveler readers. 

Don't you know that bon vivants are the easiest people on your holiday list to shop for - they only want the very best! Celebrate their exquisite taste and joie de vivre with a gift of boutique champagnes from Henri's Reserve. Showcasing only champagnes from France's finest family estates, Henri's Reserve makes exclusivity accessible - many of their selections are produced by houses that ship less than 5,000 cases a year. Gift options include single bottles, tasting samplers, and a Champagne Club that delivers bubbly to the recipient throughout the year. Look no further for a gift with je ne sais quoi!

Gaston Chiquet is one of the boutique champagne producers available at Henri's Reserve. Wine Advocate describes their NV Brut Premier Cru Tradition as "clean and fragrant throughout, the wine reveals terrific balance and a long, refreshing finish with pretty notes of pineapple, pear and melon that add complexity on the close."  Regular price is $50, pay $45 with the discount.

 

 

 

 

Jet Set Gift: Delicious Flavors of España from Spanish Suitcase

The Spain loving and paella craving foodie in your life will shower you with besos when you gift them with this tasty collection from Spanish Suitcase. Packaged in a very elegant and travel-inspired keepsake gift box, the Chef Suitcase is $145 and includes luxury spices like San Román Premium Saffron Thread, Tagornar Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Santo Tomás Arroz Bomba Rice, an El Cid paella pan, a deck of tapas recipe cards from acclaimed Spanish chef José Andrés, and more. Visit the Spanish Suitcase website to shop for the Chef Suitcase and more of their amazing gourmet souvenirs from Spain.

Jet Set Gift: KAIA Jewelry's Very Pretty Place-Inspired Bracelets

The holiday season is in full swing and it is the perfect time to pamper the travelers you adore with some great gitfs. My first pick for a jet set gift comes from KAIA Jewelry and their beautiful bracelets inspired by places. Affordably priced from $50-$95, the various designs include Barcelona, Mombasa, Belize and more. Don't forget to treat yourself too!

The lovely Belize bracelet ($65) by KAIA Jewelry is made of brown striped agate with silver brass spacers and a gunmetal crystal studded disco ball. Did you know that agate is said to raise consciousness, build self-confidence, foster love, and heal inner anger? Who knows, but I like the positive energy!

Another favorite from KAIA is the Barcelona bracelet ($95) made of pyrite and featuring a hematite studded accent bead. Pyrite is said to attract money, stimulate intellect, and ease depression. We could all use a little more of that during the holiday season!

Click here to view the full KAIA collection of jewelry.

Delicious Alert: Spanish Suitcase Filled with Tasty Treats from España

The Original Spanish Suitcase - $175

Jet Set Marcona Almond Duo - $22

For those moments when you're craving a delicious treat from Spain but can't travel abroad, just open a box of gourmet goodies from Spanish Suitcase. Founded by a husband and wife team with a passion for Spain and its cuisine, Spanish Suitcase creates travel-inspired, luxury gift boxes chock full of the country's best treats -  olives, Jamón Ibérico, almonds, chocolate, cheese, and more. They even have specialty boxes for vegetarians and seafood lovers. And, the suitcase inspired packaging is a clever departure from your run-of-the-mill gift basket. Spanish Suitcase gift boxes are available from $60-$175 and a select assortment of individual items are available for as little as $14.  

 

Time to Spoil Mom: Great Gifts for Mother's Day

Mother's Day is just a few days away (Sunday, May 13) but there is still time to give your Mom a gift that will make her feel like a jetsetter whether she is taking a trip or relaxing at home. (image: Keith Haring, Mother Holding Baby )

One of my friends recently took her 70 year-old mother on a week long vacation to Italy and had a blast. It has been way too long since I've traveled with my Mom but instead of surprising her with a trip - I would involve her in the planning process. Present your mom with several guidebooks for 3-4 places that you think would be a great fit for your ultimate girlfriend getaway and let mom get the final vote. Barnes & Noble has a great selection of travel guides.

If you've already planned a tropical getaway for Mom, this gorgeous turquoise bejeweled linen caftan from Calypso St. Barth will take her from the beach to cocktails in style. And, if even if she never leaves the house she'll feel glamorous in this chic caftan. (Llewellyn Turquoise Jeweled Caftan, $345)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Sometimes Mom just wants to relax! Just in time for Mother's Day, Lierac Paris skincare and Ovando Florist have partnered to create "Sleeping Beauty"- a chic floral arrangement paired with a sophisticated selection of best-selling Lierac products. The gift includes a striking floral arrangement, Lait Sensoriel Body Milk, Sensorielle Multi-Use Oil, and Body Slim Anti-Cellulite Concentrate. ($225, a $285 value)

If your mom is a foodie with an adventurous palate, The Ingredient Finder is certain to have the perfect spice, oil, salt, and more. One of my faves is their Global Spice Blend Collection ($162) that showcases blends from Marrakech, Sri Lanka, Spain and beyond. And, if you're lucky, mom will get the hint that you're craving a homecooked meal with a dash of these spices. Of course, you'll do the dishes!


My Mom believes that there are few problems in the world that a nice cup of tea can't solve and some of our best conversations have opened over tea. The ritual of tea is all about taking a time-out to connect and reflect. So while you and mom are planning your trip or reminiscing about past adventures, brew a pot of this gorgeous Blooming Zen Tea. The gift set ($89.95) includes two flavors of Japanese white tea and a beautiful clear glass tea pot so that you can observe the tea balls blooming as they steep.

Traveling with Cupid: Valentine's Day Gifts for Travelers

If you're planning to spend Valentine's Day traveling with your sweetheart, you've probably already made your vacation plans. If not, sites like SniqueAway and LastMinute.com are great for planning romantic escapes on short notice.

Personally, I like my Valentine's Day on the simple side: give me delicious dark chocolate and a romantic dinner and I'm in heaven! (Of course, I would not be upset if said romantic dinner took place in Paris!)

I also love to give and receive whimsical gifts adorned with hearts. Here are three practical Valentine's Day themed gifts for travelers that will keep you on your darling's mind whenever they are far from home.

Romero Britto Heart Luggage Tag
$16
Brazilian artist Romero Britto is known for his bold and playful creations. Share a piece of his joyful art with your darling by gifting this wildly colored can't-miss-it luggage tag.






I Am Love Leather IPad Case
Peace Love World
$68
Romance and functionality pair beautifully in this cute and practical IPad case. It will keep your sweetie's IPad safe and remind them of you all year-round.

Jonathan Adler Red Heart Soft Photo Wallet
$16.95
Isn't it about time to print out some of those photos on your computer? Fill this wallet with precious photos of you and your better-half. This low-tech gift has big impact!

Give a Gift, Save a Life: Shop UNICEF for Presents that Make a Difference

While many of us fill our luggage with cute dresses and shoes, UNICEF workers travel to 190 countries with supplies that can save the lives of children. Let's face it, from Haiti to Pakistan, when disaster strikes it is often women and children that suffer the most. Since 1946 UNICEF has been committed to helping children overcome not only the impact of natural disasters but also the obstacles that result from poverty, violence, disease and discrimination.

There is never a bad time to support such an important cause, but the holiday season is the ideal time to give a gift that supports UNICEF's mission - it takes more than compassion to save lives, it takes resources. Recently, I was invited to take an up close look at the UNICEF gift collection, including their famous greeting cards, jewelry, and more. It was hard to whittle the list down, but here are five of my favorite UNICEF gifts.

 

Handmade Nepalese Scarf
$30
This brightly colored scarf is the perfect accent for a little black dress and a great way to stay warm and stylish. Made in Nepal, it is a hand-woven and hand-dyed softly textured blend of cotton and viscose.

Silk Jewelry Travel Roll
$12.99
Keep your baubles organized on the road in this pretty hand-embroidered pouch. Made in India, it has 3 individual pockets to securely hold your trinkets.

What about giving a gift directly to a child in need? Buy a UNICEF inspired gift and dedicate it to a friend. Your friend receives a card and your gift is sent where kids need it most. 

  School-in-a-Box
$256.40
Help UNICEF set up a temporary school for at least 40 children during times of emergency. Supplied in a lockable aluminum box, the kit includes basic school supplies and classroom tools that are vital for helping children continuing their education in the most dire of circumstances.

  Bicycle
$86.25
The gift of a bike helps UNICEF health workers and midwives deliver vital services and supplies to rural communities - talk about traveling for good! 

Winter Child Survival Pack
$81.35
Provide a child with the supplies they most need to survive the next 6 months. This kit includes Micronutrient powders that help a child on the brink of malnutrition get the vitamins and minerals that are most essential for them to grow up healthy, immunizations from measles and polio, and water purification tablets.

 To learn more, visit www.unicefusa.org.

Feed the Foodies: Five Tasty Holiday Gifts

I'm willing to bet one of my little black dresses that if you love to travel then you are probably a foodie too. After all, one of the thrills of visiting a new place is sampling the regional cuisine. However when when you can't get to Spain for tapas or down South for grits, getting your favorite faraway foods shipped to you is a convenient way to satisfy a craving. Here are five food gifts that will make even the most sophisticated foodie smile.

Around the World Collection
$162 at IngredientFinder.com
This high end collection of 12 unique spice and herb blends makes everyday meals extraordinary. Whether you are scrambling eggs or grilling chicken, add the flavors of Marrakesh, Sri Lanka, Spain, France, Kentucky and other tasty destinations to your recipes.

Tapas for Two
$49 at LaTienda.com
Invite an amigo over to share this bountiful basket of treats from Spain. It includes chorizo, San Nicasio potato chips, Peregrino anchovy stuffed olives, Marcona almonds, Rabitos chocolate fig bonbons, and even a terra cotta cazuela dish for serving the olives or almonds. Buen provecho!

Vosges Haut Chocolat Exotic Candy Bar Flight
$33 at Vosges.com
Say au revoir to boring chocolate - Vosges brings out the best in chocolate by combining it with exotic ingredients like wasabi, sweet Indian curry, and bacon.This pretty purple box contains 4 bars of their creative confections.

Something Sweet from Italy
$79 at Eataly.com
For a gift with a celebrity pedigree, choose this basket of dolci from Eataly - NYC's new Italian market run by Mario Batali and Lidia Bastianich and her son Joe. This tote bag of goodies includes torrone, cookies, coffee, hazelnut candy and more!

Belle of the South
$61.95 at ATasteoftheSouth.com
Enjoy southern hospitality anywhere with this basket of down home delectables chock full of South Carolina Cayenne Hot Sauce, Charleston Grits, Low Country Peach Preserves, 2 flavors of Iron Brew Coffee and much more. 

'Tis the Season: Twelve Gorgeous & Great Gifts for Gals on the Go

Sometimes the true meaning of the holidays gets lost in all of the shopping chaos but you don't need to max out your credit cards to show someone you care. Traveling ladies appreciate functional gifts that make life on the road easier. I've put together a list of twelve great gifts that will bring a holiday smile to the jetsetting divas in your life without sending you to the poor house. After all, you need some money leftover to treat yourself too!

Samsonite XSpace Expandable Spinner Carryon
on sale at Ebags for $161.99 and free shipping.
Samsonite may not be the sexiest luggage on the market but their bags have a stellar reputation due to their sturdiness and functionality. Also available in Galaxy Black and Mars Red, this brightly colored carry-on has multi-directional wheels that provide 360 degree upright rolling. The case expands but fits easily into overhead bins. 

Le SportSac Large Weekender
$81.48 at Endless.com
Perfect for a weekend getaway, this lightweight bag has a playful pattern, plenty of compartments, and a roomy interior. Various patterns available. 


Packable Down Jacket in a Pouch
$119 at TravelSmith
Water-repellent, tear-resistant and windproof, this sleek down jacket comes in a  drawstring
pouch that can double as a pillow on the plane. Also available in black.

Flip Video Mini HD Camcorder
$199.99 at Amazon
Capturing travel memories on video is super-easy with this compact camcorder. Tiny enough to fit into a pocket or purse, the Flip is big on features, including HD quality video and easy uploads to Facebook and YouTube.




Juicy Couture Leopard Laptop Sleeve
$78.00 at Endless.com
Animal print is all the rage this season  - protect a laptop in fierce style with this glossy vinyl leopard sleeve.


Very Hollywood by Michael Kors Gloss & Rollerball
$18 at Sephora
Glam touch-ups on the go are a cinch with this chic lipgloss and fragrance combo. Airline approved, slip this into your bag to spritz and slick anywhere.

Invicta Women's Limited Edition Diamond Chronograph Watch
On sale for $129.99 at Endless.com (regular price is $695)
Missing a flight is next to impossible with this gorgeous watch on your wrist. Keep track of time in style. Blinged out with 16  hand-set diamonds and a mother-of-pearl face, this watch is also sturdy - it has a stainless steel case and is water resistant up to 330 ft. 

The World Traveler Note Card by She's Got Papers
$3.00 per card or $12 for a set of 6.  Set of 6 personalized cards is $36.
Even in a high-tech world, a handwritten note still has major impact. Give a set of these whimsical cards to your favorite jetsetter so she can send you a note full of juicy details about her latest getaway. After all, secrets are too sacred for a postcard and should be placed in a sealed envelope!

Kate Spade Foiled Again Medium Leila Cosmetic Case
$60 at Endless.com
Flashy and classy at the same time, this medium sized cosmetics bag is a fun way to keep makeup organized. And, that flash of gold will make it easy to spot in the most cluttered tote bag! Also available in silver.

Kushyfoot Flats to Go
$8.99 at Kushyfoot.com
These fun flats are the perfect stocking stuffer for every traveling lady on your list. Made of soft and flexible faux leather, Kushyfoot Flats to Go come in a convenient plastic carrier that slips easily inside a purse. I keep a pair in my bag for instant relief whenever my feet start aching. Available in black, gold and silver.

Little Black Convertible Dress
$155 at NuovaVitaonline.com
One flirty little black dress with 12 different looks is a dream come true for a traveler! Light and flowy, this functional frock is comfy and cute.

PEACE Black Sheer Jersey Chemise
$36 at Peace Love World
Give your favorite traveler a wearable message of peace in this triple-threat chemise that functions as sleepwear, a tank or a dress. With the word "Peace"  imprinted on the bottom, this garment is a perfect sentiment for the holiday season and always.

From Rock 'n' Roll Camp to Gladiator Training: Great Travel Gifts for Dad

Father's Day is the perfect time to spoil Dad, and many of the special men in your life, with a travel themed present. Whether he fancies himself a top chef or a king of the road, these gifts are sure to make him smile on June 20 and any day of the year. Consider yourself warned: you may be tempted to get one of these very cool presents for yourself!

Iron Chef Wannabe: Has Dad been whipping up the same recipes since you were a tiny tater tot? Enroll him in a culinary arts program so that he can graduate from nuking Hungry Man TV dinners to making a gourmet meal from scratch. The Institute of Culinary Education in NYC has a great selection of courses. Also, in addition to their legendary Paris culinary mecca, Le Cordon Bleu has several locations throughout North America from Atlanta to Sacramento.


When in Rome, Be a Gladiator: Who knew there was a market for gladiators in 2010? The luxurious Cavalieri Hotel offers training in ancient combat techniques with instructors from Rome's Gladiatorial School. The classes are taught in a private park overlooking Rome's skyline. Enrollment includes a snazzy tunic, Roman sandals, and a wooden training sword.

King of the Road: The BMW Performance Driving School in Greer, South Carolina gives motorcycle and car enthusiasts the opportunity to safely unleash their inner speed demon. Taught on a fleet of BMW's latest vehicles, there are courses for novice and experienced drivers.

Dad Loves Rock 'n' Roll: Have you caught Dad singing into his hairbrush or does he hog the mic at karaoke? Give him the opportunity to headbang with the best of them at Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp in Philadelphia, San Francisco, Dallas or Chicago. Participants get to jam, record a song, and perform with real rock stars from groups like Guns & Roses and Quiet Riot. Rock on! 

PS. Be sure to pack Dad a bag of toiletries for his adventure. The Orvis Batenkill Canvas Travel Kit is on sale for $59 (reg: $79) and can be embossed with up to 6 letters for an additional $8.

Fill the bag with goodies from NIVEA for Men's new Revitalizing Q10 products. It includes Shaving Gel, Eye Roller Gel, and Double Action Balm. All of the products contain Coenzyme Q10 and moisturize, defend and soothe the skin. Affordable, effective and available at drugstores everywhere!