Tradition has it that new 21-year-olds should be given a fine vintage from the year they were born – or perhaps I’ve been reading too many British novels from the last century because for most 21st century families, such a gift has all sorts of problems, not the least of which is the lack of a temperature controlled wine cellar, and a butler to decant the Chateauneuf de Whatever. And most young adults have not yet developed the palate for Port, Sauternes and the kinds of high end red wines that age well over two decades. So here are five other gift ideas for saluting that landmark birthday.
1. Champagne & Diapers
Photo courtesy of Craig Toron, Stock.Xchng Photos
A bottle of fine champagne – a Veuve Cliquot, for example, a Perrier-Jouet or a Dom Perignon – is a very special, always-appropriate gift. For 21st birthdays, some people get a kick out of wrapping the bottle in a white linen napkin or cloth diaper, and fastening it with a large diaper pin. (Using disposable Pampers doesn’t have quite the same aesthetic effect, but it gets a laugh too.) Cost: $45-$200.
2. A Wine Appreciation Class
Photo courtesy of Nat Arnett, Stock.Xchng
Turning 21 doesn't just confer legal permission to guzzle booze, it also opens the door to new, aesthetic delights. Help your new 21-year-old learn to appreciate Chardonnays and Zinfandels with a gift certificate for a wine appreciation course at a community college or wine boutique. Or, opt for a food-and-wine pairing class at a local gourmet store. Cost: $50-$200.
3. Brewery Boutique Options
Photo courtesy of Gianni Testore, Stock.Xchng Photos
Not a wine drinker? Some 20-somethings will thrill to the idea of learning to make their own beer. And an increasing number of boutiques are popping up to cater to the home-brewing market with classes and supplies. Opt for a gift certificate for a beer making class or home brewing kit. Cost: $20-$200.
4. Beautiful Glassware
Photo courtesy of Vivek Chugh, Stock.Xchng Photos
Chances are your new 21-year-old has an oddball collection of glassware. Give him an upgrade - 8 or 12 new wineglasses or highball glasses to replace the beer pong collection. Cost: $24 and up.
5. An Espresso Machine
Photo courtesy of Andreas Just, Stock.Xchng Photos
That new 21-year-old's more adult tastes probably include non-alcoholic beverages too. As long as his post-college job description does not include the word "barista," he'd probably love an espresso machine of his very own. If he prefers flavored, latte-like concoctions, consider a Flavia, a single-serve brewing machine that makes Milky Way-flavored cappuccinos. Cost: $60-$400 for an espresso machine, $100-$200 for a Flavia.
