Lush, elegant and evocative, wine and fruit baskets are hugely popular gift offerings that thrill and titillate. The sight of those colorful fruits snuggled around impossibly mouth-watering wines hits the senses immediately. Who can look at these distinctive gift baskets without a pang?

Your goodwill and generosity of spirit are ideally conveyed through wine and fruit baskets during the holiday season, as well as at weddings, housewarming parties, birthdays or other personal celebrations. It speaks of the mutual joy and happiness that you share with the recipient, and a call to celebrate with vigor!

Seasonal and tropical fruits, usually crunchy pears, crisp red apples and juicy oranges from renowned sources, take the top spot in a classic wine and seasonal fruit basket. Royal Fuji apples from Japan, South African baby pineapples and chocolate-covered cherries or blueberries are other exciting fruits that make for a basket with a difference.

Dried fruit assortments, nuts, cheese and chocolates are added to the fresh fruits to make a heady combination. Fruit preserves, dips and savory mixes are also integrated into this creative basket to cater to a family or office team and to linger long after the fruit and wine have been consumed.

A full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon, a smooth Chardonnay, Pinot Noir or other sparkling wine bring out the multiplicity of fruit flavors. Champagne, fruity, dry wines or sweet dessert wines also work well with fruits.

Another intriguing innovation that adds to the magnetism of these baskets is to offer combinations of fruit and wine that result in a new product. Pineapple and passion fruit juice or kiwis and lime, when combined with white wine, can result in a delightful Sangria that will leave your loved ones dazed. Fruit wedges, sliced peaches, and strawberries with chilled white wine can result in a memorable super-fruity sangria. Traditional mimosa drinks are another alternative with fruit and wine. Your beloved champagne with orange juice can result in a heady mimosa that will embellish a Mothers Day brunch like never before.

So weigh your options, look at your budget and decide how best you want to toast the occasion. Unleash your creativity and zest for life with the ideal wine and fruit gift basket. Let your popularity soar, and may you bask in oceans of eternal love and friendship!