Wine Gifts with a Game or Activity

A wine gift is nice. A wine gift with something to do is better, because it turns a bottle into an evening. This page sorts the options by activity (poker, backgammon, pizza making, and boards for grazing) so you can match the gift to the person who will open it.

Poker sets with wine

The High Rollers sets pair a bottle with a tournament style poker set. They suit people who already host cards nights, or anyone who has said they would like to start. Pick the wine by taste: one version comes with Julia James Chardonnay, the other with Bread and Butter Cabernet. It works well for a group of friends, a shared office gift or a birthday for someone who likes a bit of friendly competition.

Backgammon sets with wine and snacks

Backgammon is a two player game, which makes this a good pick for a couple, a pair of old friends or a parent and grown child. The set is velvet lined and comes with a bottle and a gourmet snack mix, so there is something to nibble between moves. You can choose Hay Maker Sauv Blanc for a lighter white, or Angeline Cabernet for a red. It feels a little more grown up and permanent than a deck of cards, and the board stays useful long after the wine is gone.

Pizza making kits with wine

This is the option for people who like to cook together. The Pizza Party box has a pizza making kit for handmade slices, plus a bottle of Italian wine. Choose the Pinot Grigio if the recipient likes white, or the Chianti if they lean red. It suits families, housemates and new couples, and anyone who would rather make dinner than be handed a snack. It is a good housewarming idea too.

Cheese and charcuterie boards with wine

If the "activity" you want is a relaxed evening of grazing and talking, a board is the simplest choice. The Poppin' Poppies tote holds California white wine, cheese, crackers and a bamboo cheese board. The cotton canvas tote is multipurpose, so it can be reused afterwards. The Cutting Edge set pairs a Robert Mondavi red wine with a charcuterie board, and suits someone who likes to entertain and enjoys a more savoury spread. Both work well for hosts, couples and anyone hard to buy for.

How to choose

• Think about who will be there. Poker needs a group. Backgammon needs two. Pizza and boards work for any number.
• Choose red or white by the drinker. Most sets come in both, so the wine choice can follow their taste without changing the activity.
• Decide how much effort they want. A pizza kit means cooking. A board or tote means opening and sharing.
• Check what stays useful. The backgammon set, the poker set, the bamboo board and the canvas tote can all be used again.
• Look at what is included. Some sets add snacks, others add cheese and crackers. Read the description so you know whether a meal or a nibble is on offer.

Questions people ask

Which one is best for a couple?

Backgammon suits two people well, and the pizza kit is a good shared activity. Both come in red or white.

What if I do not know whether they drink red or white?

Most of these sets come in both. If you are unsure, ask someone close to them, or think about what they usually order.

Is a poker set only for serious players?

No. It is described as a tournament style set, but it works for anyone who enjoys a game night with friends.

Can I send these as a gift to someone else?

Yes, but check the retailer's delivery rules for wine before you order. They can vary by location, and someone may need to be there to receive it.