Wine gift baskets are a very popular choice of gift in South Africa. Suited to a range of situations and celebrations, this is a gift that combines flavours, aromas and textures to create a thoughtful item that can be thoroughly enjoyed. As one of the most famed wine regions in the world, South Africa and the Cape Winelands boasts world class wines and local produce of the highest standard.

When putting together a well thought out wine gift basket, be sure to have a selection of paired items. With common pairing options and some scrumptious modern ideas, there are so many ways to present someone with a customised gift basket that shows off a stunning selection of local treats. As wine has so many styles and vintages there is so much to choose from when trying to pair with sweet and savoury products.

A popular choice for winter, is a gift basket with chocolate and wine and is both intimate and enjoyable, bringing a sense of luxury to gift giving. With dark chocolate being paired with many “red berry” reds like Pinotage or Merlot and lighter milk chocolates with the fruitier white wines.

The perfect celebration of commitment or enjoyment, wine and chocolate pairings are perfect for the festive season, holidays and of course Valentine’s Day (the perfect start to a romantic evening). Another pairing worth trying is Nougat with dry white wines, the textures and flavours play well together, especially with a fruity nougat.

Wine gift baskets are not just for the dessert and chocolate lovers, savoury cheeses, cured meats and breads make up some of the most popular gift basket options. Playing on different textures and flavours, varying from salty to sweet, there are wines best paired with blue or cheddar, camembert or gouda and of course fig, whether the fresh fruit or preserve it is a must to accompany any cheese platter.

With a variety of flavours, aromas and textures, high quality wines afford you the best opportunity to explore the complex world of taste and what better way to experience this then with a well thought out gift basket.