Seasonal Shopping Made Easy
It’s that time of year again. A time for cozying up inside with family and friends after a day out in the fresh air and sunshine. And it’s the holiday season.
Buying gifts for family and friends can be frustrating and stressful, but the winemakers of BC have great options for all you gift-buyers out there: simply shop at their wineries.
Not long ago, BC wineries sold only wine. Today, you can find a myriad of goodies to give to almost everyone on your gift list. From Osoyoos to Prince George, from the Kootenays to Vancouver Island, there are 370 licensed wineries for you to choose from. Of these, many are open year-round for your sipping and shopping enjoyment. Those that aren’t open will still ship your favourite wines to you with enough advance notice.
It’s always nice to pick out a few bottles of vino for your friends. Then there are the many BC-made products available for purchase online and in person.
Cookbooks that incorporate different ethnic foods, and help you choose which wine to pair with what, are always a hit. Then there are all those delicious preserves made with fresh BC fruits and vegetables. You can get everything from jams and marmalades to bacon and beer ketchup and olives. Perhaps you’d prefer some fig balsamic vinegar or lime-infused oil. And those are just some of the food items available.
BC is chock full of creative folks, and you can find cheese boards, charcuterie boards, wooden appetizer plates with wine glass holders, cheese knives, place card easels—the list goes on and on. How about a nice funky wine apron, or some hand-carved wine stoppers?
Whatever you do, don’t forget the chocolate! Many BC wineries carry BC-made chocolate infused with everything from hot peppers to wine. Add in some gorgeous wine glasses and a tasteful decanter and you’ve made someone’s holiday very special.
Let’s not forget the rest of the libations made right here in BC. There are several fabulous distilleries who create the basics as well as unique spirits. There are also mulled wines, craft beer and ciders, as well as tasty treats like mead and fruit liqueurs.
Can’t get out to do your shopping? Not a problem. Dozens and dozens of online shopping options are available, and many of them do not charge a fee if you are a wine club member, or if your order is over a certain amount. They’re just a Google search away.
It’s important you also take the time to pick up a little something just for you. You’ll be glad you did.
Whatever you celebrate, we wish you all a happy and safe holiday season.