How to Give the Gift of Booze

I love food. Sometimes, I love food more than I like most people. I eat with gusto and love to play with recipes. Sometimes, we just need booze to get through the holidays. Here, worlds collide with a few ways to give the gift of food and booze.

These ideas are just a few of the many ways you can give the gift of food. It’s a unique way to say you care.

Rub Set

I was recently introduced to the wonders of Memphis Dust by my neighbor. It tastes great on pork and even beef. Show someone you care by giving them the gift of Memphis Dust with a side of Jack Daniels Tennessee Whiskey. It’s perfect for someone who’s the King of the Grill or who loves their meat smoker. Aside from Memphis Dust, another great rub is Caribbean Jerk seasoning. Add an elegant bottle of rum or Red Stripe Jamaican Style Lager and it's a recipe for a party. You can put the rubs in decorated tins and neatly write which rub is in which tin with a recipe to make their own or a coupon for replenishment. A BBQ set with tools like a spatula, brush, mitts, apron, skewers and sauces is always thoughtful. Especially with a nice local craft beer from Third Street Brewhouse.

Flavor Infused Booze

I don’t drink, but encourage responsible consumption among my family and friends. If you have someone on your gift list that’s a fan of gourmet cocktails, flavor infused vodka is very popular. Cranberry lime is a very seasonal taste. Candy flavored vodka is fun, too. Try placing red hots or jelly beans in a mason jar of vodka for 48 to 72 hours and then strain it into a nice bottle and decorating the bottle with a fun label and a ribbon. A hot brandy is quite tasty this time of year. Try making your own fruit infused brandy with apricots or peaches. Include a set of glasses or Instagram coasters.

Martini Set

Who hasn't wanted to be James Bond? The women, the cars, the cash and the martinis. The classic martini calls for four parts gin and one part dry vermouth. Pour into a mixer filled with ice and stir. Strain into a chilled glass and squeeze a lemon peel over the glass and garnish with an olive. Grab a nice bottle of high quality gin, high quality dry vermouth, a martini shaker, bar spoon, whiskey stones (so the ice doesn't water down the drink), citrus peeler and place in a sturdy wooden box. Add glasses and a cocktail recipe book.