August 2012

Thinking About the Holidays?

This is truly an issue loaded with everything a gourmet retailer needs – a wrap- up from the Summer Fancy Food Show, articles about what’s new in spices, grinders and mills, as well as wine and beer acces- sories, and then bridges to a preview of the New York International Gift Fair (NYIGF).

We have part two of our preview of the NYIGF, featuring housewares, on page 37, after highlighting handmade, tabletop and accent on design in July. And, of course, this is the season to think about, and buy for, the winter holiday season, so be sure to peruse the Gift Guide starting on page 15, which we’ve organized to make it of maximum use to buyers looking for unique items in particular categories – serveware, barware, kitchen essentials, coffee and tea, and specialty food.

With 75 percent of gift givers finished with their holiday shopping by mid-December, it seems it is never too early to search for those unique gifts with a focus on the hot- test trends. One gift idea that caught my eye includes, well, chocolate. Specifically, chocolate holiday ornaments by Yölka Chocolates, inspired by the Russian custom of hanging chocolate on yölkas, which are Russian holiday spruce trees. Also in the food realm, the Infused Oils Gift Pack by Canaan Fair Trade in four flavor varieties in small 25-milliliter bottles appeals as well as an easy party gift for holiday bread dipping while nibbling on cheese and other goodies.

And speaking of holiday parties, what would they be without elegant serveware and barware? The lovely and contemporary Infinity Two-Piece Server by Nambé, which is as much artwork as it is a practical serv- er, held my gaze for some time. Then the Glitter & Glitz Barware Collection by OGGI Corporation is a fine gift for the entertainer who likes to serve adult beverages with colorful flair. Pair that with the BarMaster’s Collection and you have ideal gifts for him and her, or her and him.

Spices and spice sets are also ideal gifts. For the home chef interested in flavors of the world, be sure to read “The Spice is Right,” page 13, by Joanne Friedrick, who has also penned an article on fun and new cocktail mixers hitting store shelves (page 34).

Cheers, and happy holiday hunting.