You have a loved one you are thinking of
while visiting a winery or brew
pub, and you want them to know that you love
them, so a pinot from the season’s cru
you’ve just tasted or a four-pack of stout
would make a perfect present.
But you grew
up with a parent, maybe even two,
who died of drink and know what it can do.

This loved one of yours also loves fine wines
or craft beers but shows the beginning signs
of that descent.
In the gift shop they sell
swag—logo-labeled coasters, flutes, and steins—,
fruit jams, and loaves of freshly baked beer bread.
And when you give them one of these instead
your loved one’s loved one whispers, You did well.