Melodie’s Secret Gift Ideas

By ML Hilton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations

So, I was working on this great December story about looking forward to 2011 and looking back at our adventures in 2010. It was filled with heart-warming accounts of Wine Train employees, the trials of the economy, and interesting tidbits about Downtown Napa. I am three days late past deadline, and the computer crashes and ditches the whole thing. Gone. Delete. Zippo.

I had a mini seizure. And my heart wasn’t into re-creating it. So instead, you have to hear about all the fun little gift ideas that I think you can find at the Wine Train Wine Store and Gift Shop.

Stocking Stuffers!

For those who like to fly –the perfect size of Neige Ice Wine ($7.95). It is less than 3 ounces, so you can take a small taste of Canadian ice wine on the plane with you. And we all know that if you are flying during the holidays, you probably need a little something something to make the experience . . . forgettable.

Still talking spirits, there is that adorable little bottle of pink champagne on a bracelet. It is the most stylish accoutrement since Paris Hilton’s little dog hit the fashion runway. A ¼ size bottle of Nicholas Feuillatte (pronounced Fiat) is just $15.

Back to small stuff: VinOair wine aerator is $19.95 and great for someone’s Christmas nylons.

If you don’t make beans, we can sell you some of ours: Wine Train Special BlendCoffee (whole, ground, regular, and unleaded) in a vacuum packed bag that will last two years (so they tell me), $11.99.

Other thoughts for your logo wear friends:

A great fleece branded in a very understated way with “Napa Valley.” The vest will set you back just $18.95 and the jacket, $22,95.

And finally for the brand new baby in your life, “New Vintage” onesies. How cute is that? And SO Napa Valley. $13.95

This year, like last year, if you are a local and come into the wine shop and tell them you read my pithy piece, they will offer you 10 percent off your wine purchases (no gift items, sorry).

As for that wonderful article, maybe, I will re-write it for January.