Host gifts: Six great suggestions

Host gifts

Invited to a big feast with friends or family? Give your hosts a gift to thank them for their hospitality—it's always appreciated! Bonus points if you give them a personalized gift.

As the saying goes, there's more joy in giving than receiving. Here are a few gift ideas that you will enjoy giving as much as your loved ones will enjoy receiving. 

Distillerie Artist in Residence Gin Flavoured

Low-alcohol cocktails are trending lately, so why not surprise your hosts with low-alcohol spirit? They're a great alternative to alcoholic gifts and a good way to vary your consumption over the holidays. Created by Gatineau-based distillery Artist in Residence, this juniper berry, citrus and plant-infused concoction is perfect for gin lovers.

Nino Franco Prosecco di Valdobbiadene + Aperol

Whether it's summer or winter, Aperol spritzes always make for a festive occasion. Simply offer a set of half bottles of prosecco and Aperol for a quick and easy apéritif. This century-old apéritif owes its characteristic flavour to the various herbs and bitter orange that compose it. Paired with prosecco in a spritz-style cocktail, its subtle bitterness will balance beautifully with the smooth and slightly sweet bubbles.

Cherry River Spiced Rum

Gift local: Cherry River is a spiced rum made in Quebec from the micro-distillery for which Marc Dupré is co-producer and spirit maker. It's perfect to drink on its own, in cooking, in cocktails or even to accompany a dessert. In addition to its notes of nutmeg and pepper, it also features cinnamon, vanilla, ginger, Labrador tea, balsam, clove and sweet clover. Fans of spiced rum will love this smooth, flavourful and full-bodied spirit.

La Cantina Oka Valley Pinot Noir 2020

This Pinot Noir is a favourite among our employees and customers alike, and has received rave reviews in Quebec. This red—which also carries the PGI Quebec wine designation—is medium-bodied, silky, with notes of cherry, sweet spice, earth, and tobacco. It will undoubtedly be a hit at the table!

Masi Costasera Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2016

Consider yourself lucky if you are gifted an Amarone! This imposing and aromatic wine has excellent aging potential, making it a perfect gift. Its aromas of plum, candied cherry, sweet spice and chocolate are sure to be appreciated.

Cremaglace

A drink that tastes like vanilla ice cream? Absolutely! Combining fresh cream, natural vanilla flavour, and neutral alcohol, this enchanting beverage has captured the hearts of Quebecers. In fact, our customers and even our employees have fallen under its spell. Try it on ice, with milk, or in coffee. Those with a sweet tooth will also love the Pistachio and Chocolate Milk flavours!

Other gift ideas

Of course, you don't have to limit yourself to alcohol. Whether it's liquid or not, your offering will always be appreciated, especially if it matches your guests' tastes. Some examples:

• For those with fine palates, why not whip up some homemade treats? Chef Pasquale Vari suggests some gourmet gift ideas to make your own.
• Several local businesses offer gift boxes of fine products that will also delight your gourmet guests: La lichée, La pincée, Smoke Show, Épices de cru and Miel d'Anicet are just a few.
• For cocktail lovers, opt instead for a discovery kit of syrups like ¾ oz, Les Charlatans and Monsieur Cocktail, or a set of bar accessories.
• And to inspire their thirst for discovery, why not offer a book on wines or spirits? Here are a few suggestions:
  • Routes des vins en Amérique du Nord  — A journey through the various winegrowing regions of Canada, United States and Mexico with somm Natalie Richard. (French)
  • Boire le Québec — An ode to Quebec spirits by Rose Simard of 1 ou 2 cocktails. (French)
  • Supernaturel : immersion dans le monde du vin nature — With sommelier Vincent Laniel, aka Vincent Sulfite. (French)
  • Tout sur les gins du Québec — By mixologist Patrice Plante. (French)
  • Wine: A Graphic History — A graphic novel that traces the history of wine from prehistoric times to the present day. (English)

For even more ideas, check out our selection of ready-to-give bottles and gift sets. These are gifts that are sure to please!

Cheers and happy holidays!