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Gifts for the Wine Traveler

This Holiday Guide is for the Wine Tourist

When I was still working for a winery, I met many travelers from around the USA and the world. One of their most frequent concerns was how to travel safely with their precious cargo. Here are some suggestions for you wine tourists.

Travel Wine Protector - Set Of 2
Travel Wine Protector - Set Of 2 price $13: While I've never used these, I've met people who swear by them. Whether you're traveling by air, road or sea, these very affordable wine protectors may not only protect your precious wine, but may also protect your clothing when you stash those bottles in your suitcase (I don't advise traveling with wine in your luggage, but you know you do it).

WineDiaper Padded Absorbent Bag, Set of 3
WineDiaper Padded Absorbent Bag, Set of 3price $9: I just discovered this product. While I'm not a fan of the name "WineDiaper", the reviews are very positive, you cannot argue with the price and you can re-use it! That's win-win in my book.

BottleWise Duo TX
BottleWise Duo TX price $75: The image tells the story, a convenient, re-usable, travel bag for wine.

Built Neoprene 2-Bottle Wine Tote, Black
Built Neoprene 2-Bottle Wine Tote, Black price $15: If you're like me, you worry about accidentally dropping and breaking those lovely bottles of wine. When I take wine to share with friends, I take my Built neoprene wine tote. It's easy to carry and does an excellent job protecting those oh so lovely bottles of Washington wine. Recommended.

Washington Wines and Wineries: The Essential Guide, Second Edition
Washington Wines and Wineries: The Essential Guide, Second Edition price $23: This book is by the Seattle Times wine expert Paul Gregutt. It is an essential guide to Washington State vineyards, regions and wineries. With over 700 wineries in Washington, this guide is sure to be a hit with your wine snob friends. Recommended.

Swirl, Sip and Savor: Northwest Wine and Small Plate Pairings
Swirl, Sip and Savor: Northwest Wine and Small Plate Pairings price $15: Local Washington wine author, Andy Perdue is a contributor to this book, a guide to combining lovely dishes with lovely wines.

The Juice 2010-11: The Easy Guide To The Best Wine
The Juice 2010-11: The Easy Guide To The Best Wine price $8: As I've mentioned before, I'm a huge Matt Skinner fan. As one reviewer wrote, "It takes all of the snobbery out of wine. There's also a great breakdown of the top 100 with tons of great suggestions in different price ranges."

Hope this list is just in time to help you pick out the proper gift.

Cheers!

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