Gift Giving Takes Talent

According to Brett Arends in The Wall Street Journal, most of us are lousy gift givers. Of course he was quoting research, which just proves our contention that there’s no human activity too small to go unnoticed by researchers.

The premise of the article is that we tend to give things, everyday practical things – think socks and sweaters – rather than thinking of a rare treat for the recipient. In the realm of wine and spirits, this would mean buying a bourbon or scotch drinker a very special bottle of the stuff, one they would never buy for themselves. Or perhaps a very good bottle of brandy would be welcome. Mr. Arends suggested an unusual calvados (French apple brandy) such as six-year old Adrien Camut ($72).

When it comes to wine, think port or a special dessert wine, especially if the recipient likes to experiment a bit. We have our own suggestions, of course, which include eau de vie literally “water of life” which is clear brandy distilled from fermented fruit juices such as raspberries and pears. Most people don’t buy them for themselves. Or, depending on the budget, a membership in a wine club, which is the gift that keeps on giving. If there are wine classes locally, that’s another idea or tickets to a whiskey tasting if you know of one coming up.

The recipient will appreciate any of the above and have them feel more connected to you, the giver. The researchers said so.