Father’s Day Wine Gift Guide

Father's Day Wine Gift GuideThe great writer Ernest Hemingway once noted, “Wine is one of the most civilized things in the world and one of the most natural things of the world that has been brought to the greatest perfection, and it offers a greater range for enjoyment and appreciation, than, perhaps, any other thing.”

With that in mind, wine makes a great gift idea for Father’s Day. If Dad enjoys wine, why not think out of the box and look to fortified wines and aperitif-style wines for this year’s gift?

Rather than a bottle of regular wine which needs to be consumed quickly after opening, here are some wines that can be enjoyed for some time after opening, giving Dad the chance to enjoy your gift throughout the rest of the year.

Sandeman Founders Reserve Porto is a great introduction into the world of port wines. This ruby port exhibits classic characteristics of the best port wines without breaking the bank. Dad can enjoy this wine with dessert or in place of dessert. Kept in the refrigerator, this wine should be enjoyed within 90 days of opening for the best taste. (Although port never goes “off,” it does begin to lose some of its flavor characteristics.)

The Rare Wine Company’s Historic Series New York Malmsey Special Reserve Madeira. Madeira wines are an undiscovered treasure for most wine enthusiasts. This special selection of Malmsey (Malvasia) Madeira is the richest and sweetest style of Madeira wine made. Rich fruitcake, orange peel, toffee, and dates make this a wine to savor.

Dolin Dry Vermouth isn’t just for martinis. This Vermouth de Chambery is complex and herbal and makes a great aperitif chilled, and it complements seafood incredibly well. If Dad has never tried world class vermouth, pick up a bottle of Dolin and his entire perception of what vermouth can be will change.

Lillet is an aperitif-style wine that comes in blanc, rose, and rouge. Lillet contains cinchona bark, a natural source of quinine that provides a pleasant bitterness to balance out this wine. Lillet Blanc is an essential ingredient in the Vesper cocktail, but all marques are quite delicious on their own, served on the rocks with a twist of orange.

Croft Pink Port Wine is a new, rose style of port wine. This wine is best mixed with tonic water or served chilled. Perfect during warm summer months, Croft Pink will make an unusual and exciting gift for dad.

Any of these wines will be sure to be enjoyed this Father’s Day and for days after. Even better, these are unique gifts sure to please any Dads who are passionate about wine.

Disclosure: I received samples of some of these products from Pernod Ricard and Wm. Grant for review. No other compensation from Pernod Ricard or Wm. Grant was received.