Forgive me for beginning my list of gifts for the drinks enthusiast with something that is: a) Not at all related to beer; and b) Pricey. But believe me when I tell you that anyone with a drinks-focused bent will think you the coolest person in the world if they get this from you.
It is the Perlini Carbonated Cocktail System! And while it’s not cheap at $200 a pop, it is very, very cool.
Imagine being invited to craft some cocktails, either by guests in your own home or by your host elsewhere. You leave the room (or arrive at the door) and return with a silver briefcase. You open it up and assemble your tools. You fill the shaker with the ingredients for, say, three Negronis, adding a little extra vermouth to account for the sweetness that will be lost to the CO2. You carbonate the shaker with your sleek carbon dioxide “gun” and shake. You let it settle for 15 to 30 seconds and then pour three perfect, fizzy cocktails.
Yes, it’s less than essential. Yes, it’s a bit geeky, especially if you set the lock on the briefcase. But did I mention that it is also very, very cool? And highly recommended.