We all have that person in the family who likes receiving alcohol for Christmas. No matter how long and hard you think on what to give him, all ideas end up being another bottle of wine. Doesn't have to be the same bottle like last year though.
Even so, how do we pick something that feels special? You definitely aren't a master, but given that you don't mind going for that bottle that cost 10 dollars more, there is surely something for you among the aisles. Here are some tips to remember when you're out and about town in search for that bottle.
1. Go to the specialty store with the widest collection
Find the store that specializes in the stuff. You are most likely to get professional recommendations as their employees would be better trained than your general liquor store guys. If there's none in the area then opt for the biggest store. With their wide selection, there's one bottle that will surely catch your fancy (and hopefully, the recipient's).
2. Try something new
It's not just with wine, I don't think you too would like to get something similar every year. Sure, he liked the $8- bottle you gave him last year but why don't we step up our game and go a little further in. He can't just like 1 brand.
3. Know the receiver
A general rule is that you would want to know what kind of wine the receiver goes for. Never give him a white wine when he prefers red. Knowing the receiver doesn't stop there though. If he prefers wine that belongs to a certain price range, giving him something in the 75 dollar group won't really matter when he is used to the 8-10 dollar group.
4. Take your time and ask
Specialty stores have attendants and they are there for a reason. Ask away since you're paying for their expertise as well. You could even do an advance search about wines and see if they stock the one you have in mind. If not, they'd probably suggest something similar or better.
5. When all else fails, go for the bizarre
So you spent a good hour just to decide on what to get but you are just unsure after all. When all else fails go for the weird. It won't be what your receiver would have expected but it'll surely be a bottle to remember.