A gift idea list from Shaw + Smith

As December approaches we have taken the time to write a short, thoughtful wish list of gifts that we hope will inspire new ideas for you, for the month ahead.

Christmas looks different for everyone and keeping this in mind we have chosen items of varied price but also based on a theme that resonates with us, as winegrowers, of appreciation for celebration and togetherness, and carefully considered objects.

 

Ceramic serving plates, from Made in Japan $17.50 each + delivery buy

Made in Japan is notable in Australia for ceramics and tableware. These earthy and durable, high-lipped dishes 22cm in diameter, are perfect for serving a Burrata dish, salumi or any shared plate of this nature. Made in Japan deal directly with small family-run businesses in Japan, providing the highest quality ceramics at the best possible price; no excessive packaging either. If you live in Melbourne you might also like to see about their ceramic workshops.

 

Adventures on the Wine Route, by Kermit Lynch $24.75 + delivery buy

Non-fiction, first published in 1988, A Wine Buyer’s Tour of France is likely to add value to any wine devotee’s library. Alice Waters provides a good synopsis: “Kermit's book changed my thinking about wine. Colorful encounters with larger-than-life personalities, the primacy of the land and authenticity, plus a good dose of humorous anecdotes to keep you entertained.”

 

Bottle of 2018 Shaw + Smith M3 Chardonnay, gift boxed $49 + delivery buy

Recent winner of Best Young White Wine at the Royal Melbourne Wine Show, this Chardonnay will be a welcome addition to the dinner table. It comes with a complimentary gift box that is illustrated with fun and colourful hand-brushed zigzags, lines and curves, available with all wines if something else better suits.

 

Culture Memory Game, The School of Life $49 + delivery buy

This traditional game of matching pairs is made perfect for all ages with the addition of works of literature, art, design, or architecture, showcased on each pair. A fun way to learn up on cultural icons, their important and appearance: a visual index of some of the best ideas in the world! 

 

One book a month for three months, from Wellread $99 (delivery inclusive) buy

A book subscription can be a thoughtful gift, especially for those that manage a little more time for reading over the summer holiday. The subscription includes three carefully selected books, delivered separately each month with reading notes. There’s a kids subscription available too.

 

Universal wine glass, by Zalto $58 each + delivery buy

These glasses are unbelievably lightweight and delicate. The shape of the bowl distinguishes Zalto from other known stemware, and they are tall as well. Suiting a range of different wine varieties and styles, the universal glass is a good versatile option, that we can recommend.

 

A magical dining experience, at Villetta Porcini in the Adelaide Hills. $ Email to buy - vporcini@lunelli.com.au

Gifting an experience is a lovely thought and even better if it’s somewhere hidden and magical! Villetta Porcini is a new culinary experience in Mylor, where the tables are all outdoor and surrounded by nature with produce and beverages presented by André Ursini. Whether you are contributing to, or purchasing in full, the experience will cost about $200 per person for food, drinks on top. In terms of available times, they are in demand, and will be made available to your guest/s later on, upon request.

 

Broadsheet Edition prints, from $220 + delivery buy

Beautiful images by past and present Broadsheet photographers, available for purchase. They start from $220 unframed and go up in size and price from there. We like Mark Roper’s Flinders Lane featuring one of our favourites, Supernormal. Also Rebecca Mansell’s Authentic Bites II, or Gareth Sobey’s Circular Quay or Lisbon Laundry.

 

Hand blown wine decanter, by artist Nick Mount $399 + delivery buy

Nick Mount is a leading Australian glass artist living locally in the Adelaide Hills. His hand-blown wine decanters are beautiful and include a funnel available in one of four colour choices: amber, ruby, black or clear. As well as online from the Jam Factory, Shaw + Smith sell these in the Tasting Room, if you live nearby and can come in.