PRESENT time

HEART OF GLASS Use a metallic (or, on dark glass, chalk-white) marker to write a festive message right on the bottle.

BEST BEFORE “If there is something you want to cellar for quite some time, like birth-year wines, buy it in large format,” says Sheila Flaherty, brand manager at importer Halpern Wine.

INSIDE THE BOX Given the weight of large-format bottles, wooden boxes make perfect gift vessels. Search amazon.ca or eBay, or inquire at your local LCBO.

ACCESSORIZE Accompany a big bottle of red wine with a gift decanter for the recipient or host, to make pouring easier. Gift magnums of white or bubbly with a vintage trophy cup or a roomy but sturdy decorative bowl or vase, for chilling.