If you're looking for something a bit more special, choose some gourmet Italian gift baskets that include appetizers, vinaigrettes, salad mushrooms and a savory sauce. You can also include a set of pasta bowls, or an attractive Italian serving tray that makes a gift that will be remembered for its thoughtfulness.

To top off a fabulous Italian meal, nothing goes better than a cup of an authentic Italian coffee. That's why many gourmet Italian gift baskets include a selection of coffees. Choose from espresso or cappuccino, and for true coffee gourmet, include an Italian coffee maker.

Gourmet Italian gift baskets are suitable any time you want to give a gift that shows you care. Top it off with a personalized note and you will have a gift that will be remembered for its great taste and thoughtfulness.

Hans is author of the Coffee Specials and Gourmet Basket section at Steaks-Guide.com

Commercial grade coffee is also machine picked and processed which means that foreign substances such as twigs and leaves find their way into finished product. When you buy fresh gourmet coffee, you are assured of quality and taste.

You have many choices when it comes to fresh gourmet coffee. Each coffee growing region produces a uniquely flavored coffee bean and processing method to also determines final taste of coffee. The roasting method in particular determines kind of coffee taste.

Fresh gourmet coffee should be ground just before brewing. You need a coffee grinder in your home if you want to best tasting coffee possible. A good-quality coffee maker is also a necessity when making great tasting coffee.

Ross is author of the Coffee Specials and Gourmet Basket section at Steaks-Guide.com