Drinking wine is one of life's greatest pleasures. Ergo, not being able to open the frickin’ bottle is one of life's greatest frustrations. So imagine how exasperating it would be if you couldn't even get at the actual bottle in the first place.

But how could that happen, you ask. Well, it’s quite simple. All you need is a Don't Break the Bottle puzzle. These fiendish brain bam-booze-lers (see what we've done there?) are ingenious gifts that will amuse and infuriate, depending on whether you're giving or receiving. Simply lock the bottle of your choice in the puzzle's seemingly impenetrable embrace and present it to your host/victim.


At first glance, these maddening contraptions appear easy to solve. In fact, recipients may even giggle at your thinly-veiled malevolence and applaud your twisted sense of humor. But not for long. After a few failed attempts, they'll be making faces worthy of The Hulk trying to do a Rubik’s Cube. And, as full on dipsomania sets in, they'll be begging for the solution. (Walking out at this point is a seriously good joke).

There are five different Don't Break the Bottle models to choose from: the original mind-mangling wooden version, the wooden corkscrew edition (which incorporates a corkscrew for additional irritation factor) and a chic metal caddy version that doubles as a rather eye-catching bottle cradle. Although all three involve untangling a mess of balls and blocks, don't be deceived by the metal caddy's sleek design. We know it looks all modern and minimalist, but this elegant loop of wire is just as fist-bitingly infuriating as its wooden siblings.

As well as being fantastic party gifts, Don't Break the Bottle puzzles are ideal for storing that special bottle of wine when thirsty visitors call. They also make great dinner party offerings, as hosts will be so flummoxed and amused they'll probably overlook the fact that the brand you've locked inside is actually Boone’s Farm. Best of all, hosts won't know whether to thank you or throttle you, making Don't Break the Bottle puzzles perfect gifts for friends and enemies alike. Cheers, buddy, bottoms up and salute!