30+ Best Gifts For Alcohol-Imbibing Nerds
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Nerds are often viewed as smart people with glasses. This may be accurate in many instances, but their interests vary from sci-fi, superheroes, TV shows, and much more. These are the usual things associated with being a nerd, but some also like to drink alcohol and cocktails!
If there’s an occasion for gift-giving, what would you give to the alcohol-loving nerd in your life? In this blog post, we have compiled the best gifts for nerds and a buying guide to help you choose. Let’s dive in!
Our Top Picks
1. Best for GOT Fans: Nemesis Now Seven Kingdoms Game of Thrones Goblet
With this GOT-themed goblet, your loved one can unleash their inner Cersei Lannister when drinking their favorite red wine. By looking at it, we can tell that it took a meticulous design process to make this intricate vessel.
The map of Westeros and Essos on the bowl is the first thing that catches the eye, but if you look more closely, you will find further intricacies. We also appreciate that it features a stainless steel insert within the vessel for easy cleaning.
Related: Are Stainless Steel Wine Goblets Good?
2. Best Nerdy Beer Glass: Periodic Tableware Beaker Pilsner Glasses
When your friend is not busy with all geeky stuff, let them enjoy their favorite alcohol with these beaker glasses! While pilsner glasses are meant for beer, these are also fantastic for cocktails, water, soda, juices, and even smoothies.
We love these glasses’ curled lips, drawn spouts, and metric scales that recreate a beaker's authentic vibe and appearance. Furthermore, they are made of borosilicate glass and soda lime, which makes them strong and dishwasher-safe.
Related: The Different Types of Beer Glasses
3. Best for Tiki Drinks: Geeki Tikis The Lord Of The Rings Gandalf The Grey Mug
If you're loved one adores Lord of the Rings, then we have the perfect tiki-themed mug for them! They will appreciate this product’s unique take on the classic tiki mug through the image of Gandalf, one of the most iconic characters in Tolkien’s novels.
We like this 18-ounce mug’s charming, sleek, and shiny appearance. Plus, it’s made of ceramic known for its durability.
Related: The Best Tiki Supplies for Summer Cocktails
4. Best Superhero Beer Mug: Silver Buffalo DC Comics Batman Stein
Anyone who says a Batman-printed beer stein is lame clearly never had one! We think it’s one of the coolest containers, and its freeze gel feature makes it even better.
This beer mug is made from BPA-free and toxin-free plastic and boasts a 16-ounce capacity. And it only takes around four hours in the freezer to keep your beer at the perfect serving temperature.
Related: The Best Beer Glasses
5. Cutest Design: JoyJolt Star Wars Helmet Hues Stemless Glasses
“If you’re gifting for a nerd that likes Star Wars as much as I do, then I really recommend these Helmet Hues Tumblers,” says Brett White, CEO and Content Lead of Addicted to Veggies.
“I absolutely adore the design of the helmets on these glasses because they stand out from any other themed glasses I have. What’s more is that the glasses have good quality, meaning that your drink will be fantastic too,” he adds.
Related: The Best Gifts for Star Wars Lovers
6. Best TV-Inspired Liquor: Mortlach Game of Thrones Limited Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Let your geeky friends indulge in this scotch whisky by Mortlach so they can be immersed in one of the most memorable television programs: Game of Thrones! The company chose to honor the three-eyed raven, and the show’s finale for the ninth release of their limited-edition GOT single malt series.
Tastewise, we love the liquor’s complex flavors, dominated by caramel, apple, roasted grains, vanilla, oak, and orange zest. This will surely be a great addition to any nerd’s whiskey collection!
Related: The Best Scotch Sampler Gifts
7. Best for Tea Lovers: Embrew Bourbon Smoked White Sweetened Tea Bags
“Bourbon nerds are always on the lookout for new distilleries, cocktail combinations, and even products that simulate the oaky flavor of their favorite drink. This is why Bourbon Smoked White tea from Embrew is a perfect gift for them,” recommends Ashley Haywood, Founder and CEO of Embrew.
“When they wake up, they can sip on a warm, lightly sweetened cup of tea with charred oak notes from the Bourbon-smoked sugar layered in,” she adds.
Related: The Green Tea Shot Recipe
8. Best for Bardolators: Greenline Goods Shakespeare Literature Rocks Glass Set
We have the ideal glassware for literature nerds who wants to flaunt their love for William Shakespeare! A true geek would know that the art deco-style image on these glasses is from The Tragedy of Hamlet. It even includes the famous text from Hamlet’s opening page.
These lowball glasses hold 10 ounces and are thick and sturdy to assure quality and comfort. They also nestle comfortably in your hand and can be cleaned in the dishwasher without any problems.
Related: The Best Whiskey Glasses
9. Best for Female Scientists: Cognitive Surplus Great Women of Science Pint Glass
We absolutely adore the concept of this glass as it proudly displays some of the most important females in science. This would be the ideal gift for loved ones who have smart and impactful women as inspiration.
Some women featured are Florence Nightingale, Marie Curie, Janaki Ammal, and Caroline Herschel. Moreover, it has a capacity of 16 ounces and is conveniently dishwasher-safe!
10. Best for Scotch Lovers: The Balvenie 12 Year Doublewood Single Malt Scotch Whisky
“If you're looking for the perfect gift for a nerd who likes to drink alcohol, you can't go wrong with a bottle of whiskey, like the Balvenie DoubleWood 12,” says Leo Coleman, Editor in Chief of GamblingNgo.
“With this great, flavorful infusion from Balvenie, it’s like taking a trip to Speyside! It is a classic choice that is sure to please any refined palate and has a rich history and complex flavor profile that will appeal to any nerd's intellect,” he further explains.
11. Best Drink Accessory: MENTHOME Game of Thrones Drinking Horn Mug
This is the perfect gift set for anyone who swore fealty to House Stark of Winterfell. The horn mug is made from a solid piece of real ox horn to give the most genuine medieval feel.
Furthermore, it has several accessories, including a golden gift bag, horn spoon, shot glass, and horn bottle opener. The dire wolf, the sigil of House Stark, is also carved in great detail on both the mug and the shot glass.
12. Best for The Office Fans: Vivid Ventures Assistant to The Regional Manager Beer Glass
Michael Scott may be the world’s best boss and Dunder Mifflin’s regional manager, but Dwight Schrute is only the assistant to the regional manager. This is one of the running gags that made The Office a great comedy show, and it also made Dwight’s moment when he became manager more memorable.
What we love most about this 16-ounce pint glass is the Dwight figure and his iconic stapler in Jello, courtesy of Jim. Any fan would easily recognize these references!
13. Best Benefits: Bobelo Self-Carbonating Drink
RevRoad public relations, Brittany Ouimette, recommends Bobelo's self-carbonating drink packet for nerds looking for more crazy ways to ingest their favorite beverages.
“These packets make any drink more bubbly and flavorful than anything else on the market and are a fun way to make your vodka pop,” Brittany remarks. We also love that this drink is packed with vitamins, is hydrating, and contains all-natural ingredients.
14. Most Intricate: Ebros Gift Gothic Dragon Coaster Set
These coasters merge the realm of Dungeons & Dragons with everyone’s favorite tipple! The best part about it is the insanely intricate dragon for its holder; it’s almost as if the dragon is guarding the coasters.
All the coasters and the dragon holder are made of high-quality polyresin, ensuring sturdiness. Moreover, they are all handcrafted and handpainted by experts, which explains why they look so detailed.
Related: The Best Drink Coasters
15. Best Nerdy Bottle Stopper: SCS Direct Thor Mjolnir Hammer Wine Bottle Stopper
It’s time to know if you are worthy of a tasty glass of wine with this fun stopper based on Thor’s Hammer! We appreciate the complete wording on Mjolnir engraved on the product, showcasing the brand’s attention to detail.
This bottle stopper is constructed from robust metal and has been given a lovely polish. In addition, you can use the silicone band with any bottle of standard size, including wine, beer, soda, and more.
Related: The Best Wine Stoppers
16. Most Innovative: Toynk Radioactive Periodic Table of Elements Plastic Glowing Coaster Set
These coasters are perfect for your nerdy friend with an odd fascination for radioactive substances. They radiate with bright and colorful lights powered by the included batteries.
You also won’t find switches anywhere since these coasters are pressure activated, which we think is quite clever. This means they automatically light up once you put your drink on top of them!
17. Most Intriguing: Peugeot Clef du Vin Wine Tool
“Nerds also love chemistry, science and showing off their talents as modern wizards or just conducting experiments themselves. That’s why I'm fascinated by the Clef du Vin wine tool.
We've all heard about aging wine, and this is quite literally a shortcut to making that happen,” says James Hills of ManTripping.
“When dipped in a standard glass of wine, it is supposed to mimic the aging at a rate of one second for one year. However, not all wines work the same way. A cheap bottle of wine isn't going to have the same potential as, for instance, a well-crafted Cabernet Sauvignon or a likewise quality red blend,” he further noted.
Related: The Best Cabernet Sauvignons
18. Best Bar Tool for Anime Fans: Crafthand Uchiha Itachi Butterfly Bottle Opener
Given that Itachi Uchiha is a beloved character in the popular anime Naruto, we have no doubt that fans would appreciate this butterfly bottle opener. We are impressed with its handpainted zinc alloy construction that has undergone three hand polishing.
Its unique screws are treated with glue to ensure they never come loose, and its one-piece body makes it sturdy and long-lasting. Also, the traditional bottle opener head ensures reliable use every time.
Related: The Best Bottle Openers
19. Best for Astronomy Lovers: Viski Rocket Cocktail Shaker
When using this rocket ship cocktail shaker, your drink will surely be out of this world! It is crafted from high-quality stainless steel and has a built-in strainer, a launch pad stand, and a capsule cap.
Moreover, this shaker has a 24-ounce capacity for 2 to 3 servings. The outside surface also boasts a textured chrome look that lends a high-end design.
20. Best Clever Design: Mealivos Stainless Steel Hip Flask
Your Potterhead friend can enjoy their muggle self by imbibing in this Polyjuice potion hip flask! It's easy to take this 8-ounce hip flask everywhere because of its lightweight and compact design. We also like that it has a tiny metal funnel to make filling convenient.
Additionally, the mouth is well-polished to provide the best possible experience for the user. We also think it’s a nice touch that the cap is permanently fastened to the body, so it doesn’t get misplaced.
Related: The Best Flasks for Drinking On the Go
21. Most Versatile: The Quintessential Hostess Darth Vader Engraved Cutting Board
This amusing cutting board engraved with Darth Vader reminds you not to skimp on bacon in your Bloody Mary cocktail! It is crafted from sturdy bamboo wood that makes cutting cocktail garnishes easier.
The Darth Vader and text design is done using laser engraving, which ensures a fine, long-lasting print. This board can also hold cheeses, meats, and fruits for wine parties.
Related: The Best Accessories for Bloody Mary Bar
22. Most Sophisticated: Jonathan Adler Rocket Vodka Decanter
“If you’re looking for the perfect gift to someone who loves to nerd out on rocket ships but also loves to drink, I recommend our Jonathan Adler line of rocket-style decanters,” says Alexis Harvey of JCT Growth.
“They design vodka, gin, and tequila decanters in a fun and sophisticated rocket ship style that is great for entertaining,” he adds.
23. Best Cocktail Shaker: Periodic Tableware Laboratory Flask Cocktail Shaker Set
We recommend this cocktail shaker for your next nerd herd meeting so that you can show off your chemistry knowledge with alcohol and mixers!
The set includes one 500-ml flask designed with a pouring spout, four 40-ml shot glasses shaped like beakers and flasks, a stirring rod, a strainer, and more!
We love the quality of this product, with the glassware made from lab-grade borosilicate glass and the metric units from kiln-fired enamel.
Related: The Best Cocktail Shaker Sets
24. Best Multi-Purpose Set: WITANHURST Corkscrew Wine Gift Set
Wine and chess are a perfect match for nerdy drinkers. And when they open this chessboard box of goodies, they will find everything a true wine connoisseur could want!
Some accessories included are a corkscrew, wine thermometer, wine pourer, and foil cutter. It also has complete chess pieces, making it a functional board game.
The box's interior is lined with black velour, custom-cut, and cushioned. And like any standard chess board, it closes with a latch.
Related: The Best Wine and Cheese Pairings
25. Best for Home Brewers: HomeBrewStuff Nano-Meadery Deluxe Mead Kit
According to the founder of Wise Barber, Viktor Holas, a home brew starter kit is a perfect introduction to nerds who love alcohol and want to try something new.
“It could blossom into a new hobby for them, or at the very least, give them something cool to try with something they are passionate about. There are many categories of nerds, but most nerds love all things fantasy and medieval. In fantasy games like Elder Scrolls or shows like Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones, the characters drink mead or ale,” Viktor explained.
Related: The Best Mead Making Kits
26. Best Nerdy Drinks Collection: The Geeky Bartender Drinks: Real-Life Recipes for Fantasy Cocktails
If you think cocktails can't get any more intriguing, this book will change your mind. It's an excellent way to improve your cocktail game - the nerd way!
We are happy to report that some featured recipes come from our favorite sci-fi shows, MMORPGs, fantasy book series, and cult movies, such as Moloko Plus, Hero Drink, Sonic Screwdriver, Sulfuron Slammer, and Butterbeer.
27. Best Customizable: Beer Drop Subscription
Beer Drop Beer Cans - Image by Beerdrop.com
According to Rachel Page of Beer Drop, “When buying a gift for an alcohol-loving nerd, think of something that expands their knowledge while also giving them control and customization, which is why a Beer Drop subscription is perfect for them.”
“Not only do they carry world-class beers from across the country, but each month you also get literature on different beer themes and in-depth descriptions of the beer in your box! Beer Drop also recommends beers based on your preferences and allows you to customize each month's orders,” she added.
Related: The Best Beer Clubs
28. Most Elegant: Ukonic Star Trek: The Next Generation 5-Piece Whiskey Decanter Set
The next time you and your fellow Star Trek fans have an immersive conversation about the franchise, do it with this elegant whiskey decanter set. It contains a 26-ounce decanter, four 10-ounce whiskey glasses, and a stopper.
The products are made from high-quality glass, making them clear, flawless, and sturdy. Design-wise, they all display a twisted bottom shape and feature the United Federation of Planets logo. Use it when making Romulan ale to get the real Star Trek vibe!
Related: The Different Types of Decanters
29. Best for Parties: Sink or Shoot Party Game
For Lara Hartog, founder and editor of The Best Travel Gifts, the best gifts for nerds are things that will either make them smarter or allow them to use their brains.
“Board games, like Sink or Shoot, are one example because they allow nerds to use their nerdiness to their advantage and win the game. Basically, it’s battleships for grown-ups.”
In this game, losing a ship doesn’t just mean your opponent is getting closer to winning. It also means you have to drink the shots. And the drunker you get, the harder it will be to win the game,” Lara explains.
30. Best Classic Recipes: The Joy of Mixology: The Consummate Guide to the Bartender's Craft
According to Michael Perry, entrepreneur and editor at FitnessFixedGear.com, “Alcohol-loving nerds are often extremely curious and love to acquire new knowledge. They're also quick to apply what they've learned in creative and novel ways.”
“So, the best gift for them would be a rare first-edition book - The Joy of Mixology: The Consummate Guide to the Bartender's Craft by Gary Regan. It's perfect because it provides a physical embodiment of knowledge and represents a unique piece of history. Plus, they can quickly learn it and mix drinks for their friends,” he added.
31. Best Fantasy-Themed Recipes: Düngeonmeister: 75 Epic RPG Cocktail Recipes to Shake Up Your Campaign
If you haven’t tried drinking a cocktail while playing your favorite RPG, you're missing out! Lucky for you, we know the perfect drink recipe for nerds who love role-playing games like D&D.
The Düngeonmeister book has a whopping 75 drinks based on RPG games! We love that it comes complete with simple, straightforward directions, hilarious jokes, and smart comments to keep things interesting.
32. Best Board Game: Stonemaier Games Viticulture Essential Edition Board Game
This board game will light up a geeky wine lover's life while putting their intelligence to the test. It is about owning a vineyard and striving to own the best winery in Italy. We like that this game can be played solo or with five friends.
The board game includes everything you need to start playing, like multiple cards, boards, and game pieces. It also comes with a quick-reference guide and a rule book.
Related: The Best Wine Games
33. Best for Bourbon Lovers: Bourbon: The Story of Kentucky Whiskey
As stated by Chris Kowalski, content and marketing director of Autopadre and a certified craft beer and bourbon geek, “I’d give the same gift that I was given a while back, and that’s Bourbon: The Story Of Kentucky Whiskey by Clay Risen.”
“It’s a book that explores the history of bourbon and its birthplace and how the spirit evolved as America grew and flourished. Written by an expert and filled with gorgeous photographs, it’s a page-turning, coffee table book that no self-respecting bourbon-loving nerd will be able to put down until they’ve absorbed the last sentence,” he further noted.
Final Verdict
Whether your nerdy friend or relative loves science or belongs to a particular fandom, we hope we have provided you with the best gift ideas. These bar tools, liquors, and accessories will surely make their next alcohol sessions more exciting!
Which item do you think your nerd loved one will appreciate the most? Let us know in the comments.
Best Gifts for Nerds - What To Look For
Finding a gift for nerds can be challenging, depending on how well you know them or how creative you are. Check out this buying guide to help you choose the right item.
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Suitability
For Jen Stark, founder of Happy DIY Home, the main thing to consider when choosing a gift is what kind of nerd the recipient is.
“Are they into science fiction, comic books, video games, or something else entirely? Once you have an idea of their interests, you can narrow your search and find something that will speak to them,” she said.
“Another important consideration is the nerd's level of expertise. Are they total newbies or seasoned pros? The level of expertise will dictate how much detail and instruction the gift recipient will need to make use of the gift,” says Caitlyn Parish, founder and CEO of Cicinia.
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Quality
Whatever the gift’s function, it’s important to possess a certain quality that makes it useful, enjoyable, and long-lasting. This way, when the recipients decide to partake in their favorite drink, they should be able to do it comfortably.
If the product is a liquor, like scotch whisky, it must have a decent taste or flavor so the recipient can enjoy it or be inspired to learn more about it.
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Budget
James Peterson from Nitrous Whips says, “ Before hitting the store, you need to ensure you are not displeasing yourself while trying to please others. Knowing your budget will help you make logical decisions in your spending.”
Gifts for Nerds FAQ
1. What are the things to avoid when shopping for a gift for nerds?
Don’t assume that all nerds are the same. They have different interests or preferences, so avoid buying random geeky stuff. It has to relate to what kind of person they are and what alcohol they like to drink.
Also, check if your recipient already owns the product you plan to give them. Some people collect novelty items, so if they already own what you have in mind, it’s better to find a different product. Show them that you’ve put the right amount of thought into the gift.
Why Trust Advanced Mixology?
We believe that our readers should have access to unbiased, well-informed reviews when deciding which products to buy, and we work hard to provide that type of content. Our editorial team is experienced and passionate about mixology and bar equipment. In addition, we often consult with industry professionals when gathering information, which gives us an insider's perspective on the products we're reviewing.
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