I first discovered the Moleskin Wine Journal while perusing my local Barnes & Nobles, however, I didn’t buy it then because of two reasons. First, this was the week before Christmas and the lines were crazy long. Second, it was $20 and I was SURE that I could find a better deal on Amazon. It’s a good thing I waited. Not only did I skip the insane Christmas line but I also was able to score an amazing deal on this Moleskine Journal on Amazon ($13).

Don’t get me wrong, my knowledge of vino is no were near that of a sommelier or wine steward. I’m your occasional wine drinker. And that’s why I thought that this was perfect gift for me. I’ve always wanted to improve my knowledge of wine, develop a better nose and be able to know what types of wines should be paired with certain types of foods.

So I declare 2011 the year of the wine. If 2010 was about exploring different types of loose leaf tea and brewing methods then 2011 will be about exploring the world of wine. This should be a fun year and one that I plan to share with you (my notes that is).

Buy the Moleskine Passions Wine Journal from Amazon for $13.

Guinness is definitely not an every person beer, but for some, it is the only beer that matters. It’s one of those things that you either really love or you really hate. Some people swear by Guiness, while others sweat at it. And now you can read about the rich history of this storied  beer and the family behind it by checking out Stephen Mansfield’s new book, The Search for God and Guiness.

“It began in Ireland in the late 1700s. The water in Ireland, indeed throughout Europe, was famously undrinkable, and the gin and whiskey that took its place was devastating civil society. It was a disease ridden, starvation plagued, alcoholic age, and Christians like Arthur Guinness-as well as monks and even evangelical churches-brewed beer that provided a healthier alternative to the poisonous waters and liquors of the times. This is where the Guinness tale began. Now, 246 years and 150 countries later, Guinness is a global brand, one of the most consumed beverages in the world. The tale that unfolds during those two and a half centuries has power to thrill audiences today: the generational drama, business adventure, industrial and social reforms, deep-felt faith, and the beer itself.”

Buy The Search for God and Guinness: A Biography of the Beer that Changed the World from Amazon for $$16.49.

Move over, Merlot. Craft beer has finally found a place at the fine dining table. Renowned beer sommeliers Hallie Beaune and Christina Perozzi offer a down-to-earth guide to craft and artisanal brews that celebrates beer for what it truly is: sophisticated, complex, and flavorful.

Beaune and Perozzi cover everything from beer basics to the science behind beer, food and beer pairings, home brewing, and tips for perfecting one’s palate. This edgy, no-nonsense guide exposes hidden truths, debunks every misconception, and reveals the power that comes with knowing an ale from a lager.

The Naked Pint: An Unadulterated Guide to Craft Beer is available now for preorder (to be released November 3, 2009) at Amazon for $13.46.

The first book, Absolut Book.: The Absolut Vodka Advertising Story, was released in 1996 and the followed up, Absolut Sequel.: The Absolut Advertising Story Continues, was released in 2005. Both books chronicle the rise of one of the most popular vodka brands on the market. How many of you enjoy Absolut Vodka?

Absolut Book: The Absolut Vodka Advertising Story is available from Amazon for $25.51.

Absolut Sequel: The Absolut Advertising Story Continues is available from Amazon for $42.35.