Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1182230
but many local artists are generous with advice on how to make profound appropriate presents that may even inspire young people to begin collect- ing. Some playfully beautiful pieces by de Guigné, two- to four-inch wide giclée mini canvases which include small wood easels and depict iconic local scenes like the Carmel Mission, the Lone Cypress, and marine life are a great way to send—or bring home—a little bit of the Central Coast. "My art celebrates my love of the area and the spirit of Carmel," says de Guigné. "This town was founded by artists, so I really like working here." The four th-generation local enjoys making ar t that is useful. Two best selling items are from de Guigné's collections of flour sack towels and gift cards, produced locally from star t to finish. "I source people who are passionate about what they do," she says. "Together, we're able to make quality products, and because all materials and steps of manufacturing are local, I can be very hands-on." Along with local scenes, the towels feature whimsical watercolors like Narwhal in a Bottle and Monday Morning—which depicts a vibrant orange starfish climbing the side of a full, quaking coffee cup. "The towels work really great, especially for wine glasses," de Guigné says, adding, "I like to gift them with a bottle of wine." With tasting rooms numbering in the double digits in just the one square mile of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and many more throughout the area, choices are copious and almost overwhelming. But the people behind the bar provide exper t guidance and helpful history lessons. "Monterey County is known for its cool climate Pinot Noirs," says Amanda Housel of Windy Oaks Estate's Carmel tasting room. Indeed, it is California's largest producer of Pinot Noir. She adds that often people who think they don't care for Pinots are surprised to find they enjoy Windy Oaks'. "We make ours very much in the style of Burgundy, where our owner travels once a year to hand select barrels," she says. The winery offers sev- eral varieties of whites and reds, including its popular Night Owl blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre all from the Santa Lucia Highlands, Arroyo Seco, and Chalone. As enchanting as the gifts to be discovered is the shopping experience itself. 126 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • H O L I D A Y 2 0 1 9