Italian-Inspired Gift Guide

Looking for inspiration and gift Ideas for the Italophile? Read here our suggestions

 "You may have the Universe if I may have Italy"
 - Giuseppe Verdi

We'll assume that you won't be wrapping up the universe this Christmas, although you may know someone who deserves it. According to Giuseppe Verdi you can do even better! Imagine waking up on Christmas morning and unwrapping the taste and feel of Italy. Here are a few gift ideas that are sure to please any Italophile, or anyone who appreciates quality craftsmanship and impeccable style.

1. Bialetti Moka Express

Every coffee fanatic should have a Bialetti Moka Pot! The stove top coffee maker was first patented in 1933 and remains a household staple for Italians and coffee-lovers even today. The Moka has since become an iconic design and is even displayed in museums such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and the London Science Museum.

Where to Buy it: A Bialetti Store, or from Bialetti's Online Shop

2. Vespa Bag

Vespas have never gone out of style, but recently they have been experiencing a comeback. Vintage and new Vespas are a convenient solution for getting around in a busy urban city, like Rome, Milan or Florence, and in the past few years have become increasingly popular in North America for stylish motorists. If you know a Vespa-lover, help them show off with a Vespa Bag. The cross-body strap is perfect for zipping around the city on a Scooter!

Where to Buy it: A Vespa store or novelty shop featuring Vespa merchandise, or from the Vespa Website

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3. Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale

Balsamic Vinegar has been made in Modena since the middle ages. The authentic "Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale" or Traditional Balsamic Vinegar, can only be produced in Modena or Reggio Emilia, so be sure to read the label carefully. It is aged for a minimum or 12 years and is packaged in the specially shaped glass bottle pictured above. The real deal can be quite expensive so this is a gift for a very special foodie. As a rule of thumb, if the price looks too good to be true it is probably condimento grade or commercial-grade Balsamic Vinegar.

Where to Buy It: Spciality Food Stores, or find the bottle pictured above here on Amazon

4. Moleskine City Notebook

If someone you know is planning a trip to Italy, why not get them a Moleskine city notebook featuring their favorite Italian city? Choose from Rome, Milan, Venice and Florence.

Where to Buy It: Stationary stores, Department stores, or from the Moleskin Website

5. Brunello di Montalcino

Chances are someone who loves Italy also loves wine. Pictured above is a bottle of 2005 Campogiovanni Brunello di Montalcino. Bring a bottle as Italian wine such, such as Brunello di Montalcino, as a gift to the host or hostess of a dinner party. They are sure to appreciate it, and the best part is that you can enjoy it together, so it's a gift for the receiver and the giver!

Where to Buy It: Your local Enoteca

Of course you can find all these gifts and more here in Italy, so why not come spend the holidays with us! If you or someone you know is planning a trip, give them a Kiss From Italy by booking one of our tours.

All of us here at Kiss From Italy wish you a happy holiday season, and we hope to see you soon in the Bel Paese!