Open a bottle to set the mood as you get into the business of wine-making with Vinhos Deluxe Edition. Hire the best oenologists, choose the best varieties and take part in trade fairs. How do you win? Produce the best wines, of course. ($169.90; teamboardgame.com)
The award-winning Codenames is right up the word nerd’s alley. Two teams compete to identify the secret names of their spy agents using only one-word clues. Win or lose, it’s fun to figure out who’s who in this game of deduction. ($37.29; toytag.com)
The intricate but suspenseful Betrayal at House on the Hill involves some strategy and perhaps a little dramatic flair. Players “design” a haunted mansion room by room but a twist of betrayal haunts everyone. ($64.90; teamboardgame.com)
Geistesblitz has long been a popular choice for children, with its easy game play. It requires lightning-fast reaction, where the first player to grab the correct coloured figurine wins the round. Be warned, it is strangely addictive for adults too! ($39.75; toytag.com)
