LUXURY WINE GIFTS

Whenever I am asked to submit a contribution to a publication, rather than writing about random wines and other beverages, I prefer to have a theme, and where possible, a local connection, to engage readers and focus on our fabulous local products.

With Valentine's Day on the horizon, and the shops already full of tempting treats, unsurprisingly, I was asked to select ‘luxury’ gift; after all, don’t we all like to be made to feel special? Herein lies the problem though, when it comes to food and wine, we all have different tastes, and budgets.

For birthdays and anniversaries, I aim to give indulgent gifts; something that the recipient will find irresistible. Here are a few treats I have recently discovered to tempt you into splurging, just a little.

Better still, why not buy a smart wicker basket or hamper and fill it full of your loved ones’ favourite things, and getting that feel good factor by supporting our economy, with the added bonus of something in which to pack up the perfect picnic next spring.   

• Thunder Toffee Vodka, this unique blend of triple distilled vodka and toffee syrup will appeal to those with a sweet tooth. It comes in at 26% abv., costing £20. www.thundervodka.com
• Chalice Mead would be the ideal honeymoon gift for anyone tying the knot (mead formed part of the marriage ritual in medieval times). Set up to support our shrinking bee populations, and providing a modern twist, they have a wide range of flavours on offer, including Chilli Sting for the brave-hearted, and loads of lovely recipes. Available at £12.99 for 35ml., 13%abv. www.chalicemead.co.uk
• Flavoured gins have been all the rage for some time now but for something a little different those on offer from Cambridge based Hedgepig, are worth trying. I love it that 50p of every purchase goes towards the British Hedgehog Preservation Society. My favourite is the Wild Bullace (a type of plum) and Quince Gin. A subtly sweet drink, great with cheese. £15.99 for 50cl. 30%abv. www.fruityhedgepig.com
• For a drink that pack a real punch, Exmoor Distillery produce a 53% abv. Navy Strength Northmoor Gin, costing £44, using 12 botanicals in its single distillation to give real character. www.exmoordistillery.co.uk
• Brother’s Cider have been making cider for 14 generations, and with the recognition of allergies becoming increasingly important, their gluten free ciders, suitable for vegans are popular. For something out of norm, their latest addition, Parma Violet Cider, is available at £2 for 500ml. at 4.5% abv. www.brotherscider.co.uk
• Fans of Downton Abbey will be delighted to receive the Downton Hamper, which for £46 includes a bottle of Prosecco, and free UK delivery from  www.regencyhampers.com
• Lastly, Minehead based Roly’s Fudge Pantry will post your purchases for you and are constantly updating their usual range, great value at just £7 for 300g. minehead@rolysfudge.co.uk