Whenever you're invited to a social gathering, it's proper etiquette to bring the host a gift. The type of event you're invited to and the relationship you have with the host will determine the type of gift you should bring. As a rule of thumb, a nice bottle of wine is always a great gesture, especially if it's a gathering where you know people are going to be drinking. I was recently invited to a private party a friend was hosting in Buckhead, Atlanta. My friend is classy and resides in an upscale neighborhood, so I was sure to bring a gift that was relative to that style. I purchased a bottle of Louis Jadot (2005) Pinot Noir. The bottle costed me around $135; but, there are good quality wines out there that you can purchase for more than half that price. Unless you have snooty friends who are going to judge you based on your taste in gifts, I wouldn't be too concerned about what type of gift you bring. Obviously, if you want to make a bold statement, you'd want to purchase something luxurious and high-end. But, it's not absolutely mandatory. When it comes to gift-giving, the old saying still remains true: it's the thought that counts!
