Five Star Gift Ideas

For your friend who is passionate about becoming a sommelier, there are several thoughtful and meaningful gift ideas you could consider. These gifts can help enhance their journey and fuel their passion for wine. Here are a few ideas:

1. Wine Tasting Experience: Treat your friend to a memorable wine tasting experience at a local winery or a sommelier-led tasting event. This hands-on experience will allow them to expand their knowledge, explore different varietals, and refine their palate. You can even opt for a specialized tasting, such as a vertical or horizontal tasting, to delve deeper into the nuances of specific wines.

2. Wine Education Course or Certification: Consider gifting your friend a wine education course or a sommelier certification program. This would be a valuable opportunity for them to learn about wine regions, varietals, tasting techniques, food pairing, and more. They can gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills from professionals in the industry, which will contribute to their goal of becoming a sommelier.

3. Wine Books: Help your friend build a library of wine knowledge with some informative and well-regarded wine books. Consider titles such as "The World Atlas of Wine" by Hugh Johnson and Jancis Robinson or "The Wine Bible" by Karen MacNeil. These comprehensive guides offer in-depth information about wine regions, winemaking practices, and tasting notes.

4. Wine Accessories: There are various wine accessories that can not only enhance your friend's wine-drinking experience but also make them feel like a true sommelier. Consider gifting them a set of quality wine glasses, a decanter with a unique design, a wine aerator, or even a wine bottle opener specifically designed for sommeliers.

5. Wine Subscription: Provide your friend with the opportunity to explore different wines from around the world by gifting them a subscription to a wine club or a monthly wine delivery service. These subscriptions can curate a selection of wines based on their preferences, allowing them to discover new flavors and expand their knowledge.

6. Vineyard Tour: Plan a trip to a renowned wine region, such as Napa Valley, Bordeaux, or Tuscany. A visit to a vineyard will give your friend a chance to witness the winemaking process firsthand, engage with experts, and deepen their understanding of the industry. This experience will not only be educational but also provide inspiration and motivation for their sommelier aspirations.

Remember, the most important aspect of any gift is the thought and effort behind it. Understanding your friend's passion for becoming a sommelier and selecting a gift that aligns with their interests will undoubtedly make their birthday extra special and meaningful.

Or you can get her/him a star map with the date when she/he was born.

Amber Lynn Thompson says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“Had my boyfriend a portrait made for his birthday and he absolutely loves it. I do as well and will be using again. Thanks so much. ❤”