1. Chill Out with Corkcicle
It’s novel, it’s useful, and it’s likely to put a smile on the face of anyone who loves wine—or any other bottled beverage. The Corkcicle beverage chiller is an icicle-shaped gadget designed to be stored in the freezer then inserted into a bottle that needs to be kept cool. Corkcicles can be customized with full-color logos and designs.
2. Caffe Luxxe: Be Your Own Barista
Los Angeles’ Caffe Luxxe has its own roasters, so corporate gifts and packages (for clients like USC) begin with its freshly roasted beans, such as the classic espresso blend that packs a punch. Add-ins include a coffee press, organic teas, almond cookies and more, all packaged in handmade bags. Customizable gift bags start at $15.
3. Lette Macarons: Colorful Sweets
With outlets throughout the state and available online, no one is far from Lette’s rainbow-hued Paris-style macarons. Both cheery and tasty, the delicate cookies can be ordered in gift boxes from six ($11) to 60 ($129). Party towers and mini-gift boxes are also available.
4. The Balvenie 15-year-old Single Barrel Sherry Cask
Whisky aficionados realize that, thanks to worldwide demand, the finest whiskies are in short supply. The Balvenie’s 15-year-old Single Barrel Sherry Cask ($100) is a rarer bottle still made in the Scottish Highlands using 19th-century techniques, crafted from crystal-clear spring water and estate-grown roasted barley, then aged in an oversized sherry cask to round out the rich flavors.
5. SoLA’s Modern Souvenirs
The Sisters of Los Angeles (SoLA) present modern memorabilia featuring bright graphics designed by LA architect Barbara Bestor to celebrate the Golden State. Mugs and shot glasses, water bottles, beach towels, candles, shimmery gold totes, kites and sweatshirts are emblazoned with “California” or the name of beaches and cities. Prices start at just $5 for a lapel pin. Customized products and designs can also be ordered.
6. Alcove Chocolate: Stylish Chocolate Bars
From one of LA’s most popular cafés, Alcove chocolate bars have whimsical and eye-catching packaging and come in customized gift boxes of mini and full bars, starting at $25. The dozen proprietary blends made in limited batches include flavors like chipotle chili, red velvet and banana cream crunch.
The Fare Trade: Chef-Selected Goodies (Not pictured)
Top chefs curate a selection of artisan-made foods for The Fare Trade’s epicurean gift box. Give the monthly service or order a single box; all come jam-packed with treats and recipe cards from the chef and links to instructional videos. Subscriptions start at $65 a month; single gift box is $50 (includes shipping and tax).
