culture Inherent Weisse: All the Holiday Beer Gifts You Could Want

Want to give a loved one reading material about their favourite beverage, upgrade their style, or offer some quality gift packs? We have you covered.

The holidays are upon us once more, Toronto. It’s time to wear festive sweaters ironically, drink lots of eggnog (because it WILL run out), form opinions on cabs and Uber, and of course…

Rack our brains for gift ideas.

Whether it’s a casual office friend, dinner host, or someone a bit more closer in our lives, we all know someone who is a really big fan of beer. As the season brings with it a sense of occasion and thoughtfulness, just grabbing a random bottle of something doesn’t really feel like enough. With that in mind, here are a few gift ideas for the beer lover in your world.

Books, Books, Books

One of this year’s best books in beer without question is Stephen Beaumont’s Beer & Food Companion, where the world-renowned beer writer puts his focus towards pairing … well, as the title says, beer and food. Beaumont talks with chefs and beer experts throughout the world and provides everything you would ever need to know on the subject, from tracing the history of pairing to modern dining tips. For the beer-loving, budding chef in your life, you can’t go wrong with this book.

Readers of this column will remember The Comic Book Story of Beer by Jonathan Hennessey, Mike Smith, and Aaron McConnell. Taking the reader on a journey through the history of the world’s greatest drink, this graphic novel puts a historical context that amplifies modern appreciation for beer.

Finally, there’s nothing wrong with pre-ordering a book for the holidays! Really, it’s the promise of a surprise later on! If I could humbly suggest a book, I actually co-authored The Ontario Craft Beer Guide with former Sun beer columnist and historian Jordan St. John. Due for release in May 2016, the book is your field guide to beer in Ontario, providing information on all the breweries in this great province, as well as expert notes on their offerings. Just, you know, putting that out there. *coughs*

Something to Wear

Cyberoptix Tie Lab has been producing high-quality hand-screened neckties, scarves, ascots, bowties, and pocket squares for almost 10 years now. Among their fine designs is an elegant and beautiful hops and wheat print that comes as a necktie (both silk and herringbone silk), ascot, and linen weave pashmina. Get rid of your loved one’s grubby brewery logo T-shirt (you know the one) and help them enter the world of style while still showing off their passion.

Actually, you know what? A shirt is good, too. Most breweries in the city have retail spaces for some awesome swag. Notably, check out Left Field Brewery, Bellwoods, and Amsterdam Brewing.

Beer Works, Too

The St. Bernardus Mixed Pack was one of my favourite picks from last year and that still stands. At the LCBO, you can get the complete selection of beers from a truly world-class brewery for only $19.95, a price that will have your American friends frothing with envy (which admit it, will make you feel a little good inside).

For a chance to share in the experience of having a number of excellent beers, Scotland’s Innis & Gunn have released a holiday 4-pack, containing Innis & Gunn Original, Rum Finish, Toasted Oak IPA, and the Bourbon Dark Ale, along with a branded bottle opener. For $14.95, it’s a fun and inexpensive gift for holiday parties.

– Steam Whistle Brewing regularly has special gift offerings available at the LCBO. This season, they provide a pack of six pilsners, as well as a special old style, wall-mounted bottle opener. While it is a touch pricey at $39.95, it will make for an unforgettable gift.