Anyone know anything about wine and ale?

Ask him what his favorite is in a rando conversation. He'll probably go on for a while and mention a few. Then grab him one of the ones he mentions, or two if the budget allows. You can also go to the clerk and tell them what he said, there might be something similar and in a variety pack. If he's adventurous at all he'd probably like at least something from the variety pack.

I know about ale, but most wine tastes like vinegar to me.

A six pack of a local craft brew (or a variety of them if possible) makes a nice addition to a booze basket.

I’d say go mid-range with the wine unless they’re super pretentious. Avoid sales because that can mean a wine is old and they need it gone. Red wine can range from in flavor but most people like Cabernet. If want to do something different you can do a port, or even old vine Zinfandel.

Instead of alc, what about a beer mug / chalice? Check out etsy

Just go to bevmo or total wine and ask them. There are people who's job it is to answer these questions.