December is here and that means the biggest month of the year for Don’t Blink. Over the course of the next few weeks, I will publish a slew of annual blog posts that always drop at the end of the year. First up is my youngest, but perhaps most creative, tradition. It is time for “Brent’s Gift of the Year.”

Every year for the past half-decade I have made a practical and inexpensive gift suggestion. In the spirit of my recommendation, I try to pick an item in the $10-$15 range that can be gifted in a versatile way—whether that be a Chinese gift exchange, stocking stuffer, or a thoughtful gift.

In 2018 I suggested an LED cinema lightbox marquee, in 2019 I championed a blanket, in 2020 I pushed a framed photo, and last year I recommended a book of stamps. Need a hint for this year?…

One word: Cheers

My gift suggestion for 2022 is a six-pack. No, I am not talking about chiseled abs, I mean six bottles or six cans of liquid delight. Anything that lands in Jeff Foxworthy’s 12 Days of Christmas must be worthy for my annual recommendation, right?

A six-pack is my recommended gift for 2022. If you want to upgrade my suggestion, you can even order a customized six-pack like my brother did for me.

But in all seriousness, I am not trying to be silly with this year’s pick. With the explosion of the craft beer industry, there are so many tasty, fun, and unique brews to choose from. With the plethora of flavors, styles, and packaging you can easily find a six-pack that will stand out.

From a Chinese gift exchange perspective, unless the final recipient is under 21 or doesn’t drink, how can you go wrong? Whether you play the version where items remain wrapped until the very end or whether the glorious sight of a good time is visible from the beginning, most people will be relieved and happy if they are holding a six-pack at the end of the night.

If you are searching for the perfect present for a family member or friend, I don’t think you can get more personalized than a six-pack. As I mentioned, there are just so many different beers available, allowing you to choose something that specifically plays to a person’s taste and personality.

Let’s not discount what a six-pack of premium beer provides to the recipient: refreshment, adventure, and plenty of good vibes. Most Christmas gifts well over the $15 mark don’t begin to even satisfy one of those qualifiers.

But I am not obtuse when it comes to the contents of the six-pack. Although beer might be preferred by many, there is nothing wrong with gifting a six-pack of soda. I will never forget one Christmas as a kid when my aunt and uncle gave my siblings and I each a six-pack of Coca-Cola in glass bottles. We thought it was the greatest thing ever. Cracker Barrel offers an extensive line of gourmet, quirky sodas in its gift shop that would be perfect for Christmas gifts.

Whether you opt for a six-pack of beer or a six-pack of root beer, there is something of true beauty with this type of gift: Recipients can indulge the moment they take it out of the gift bag or bring it back home with them fully intact. Opt for instant gratification or toss it in the refrigerator for a rainy day.

I hope your holiday shopping goes smoothly. My wish is that if you find yourself in a bind (or if you are shopping for yours truly), you will remember my gift recommendation for 2022 and head for the nearest Total Wine. Don’t Blink.