How to Buy Red Wine as a Gift

If you like wine, (and if you're here, there's a good chance you know someone who does) then you know there is little in life as satisfying as uncorking a good bottle. Wine can add so much to any occasion which is why, even for the pickiest of recipients, a good red wine for gift giving is still a go-to option. Plus at a certain level, we all know how collectable red wine is, which makes a top quality bottle of red wine a fantastic wine gift. Whether you're looking to buy a bottle built to age or something that can be enjoyed as soon as it's unwrapped, a well-chosen wine won't disappoint.

Looking to buy a good red wine for a gift?

Having said that, who among us hasn't struggled at some point to find the perfect gift? I know I have. I spent years agonising over friends' birthdays, wedding presents, Mother's Day. Christmas shopping was an absolute headache until one day I had an epiphany. The answer was staring me in the face all along. Wine! Everyone loves a good bottle and red wine gifts are a fabulous option for every occasion. Buying wine for someone else can be a bit of a daunting task, but trust me, it doesn't need to be. Here are a few suggestions for wines that will put a smile on everyone's face.

Classic Old World Wines to Look For

If in doubt, stick to the classics. There are a number of iconic wines that are known even by those with only a passing interest in wine. There will always be value in giving a gift where the recipient immediately knows the quality. From Italy, choose the Tuscan Sangiovese of Chianti, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano or the legendary wines of Amarone, you're getting a crowd pleaser. They're equally delicious enjoyed with or without food. From Spain, the wines of Rioja are incredibly popular amongst red drinkers and a Rioja Reserva or Rioja Gran Reserva can make a  nice red wine to gift as it will continue to develop more nuance as they age – a wonderful reward for the patient collector.

We love the wines of Bodegas Palacio, especially their Glorioso Rioja Reserva. Full of sweet ripe, strawberries and red cherries with hints of liquorice, sweet spices and vanilla from 12 months spent in oak barrels. It has a luxurious mellow character on the palate leading to a silky smooth, long lasting finish. These are exactly the kind of qualities that you're looking for in a wine gift. 

Of course, it is virtually impossible to go wrong with a stunning bottle of well-made claret. Between red Bordeaux's versatility with food and age-ability for long term enjoyment, they make wonderful gifts for any red drinker. Bordeaux is an excellent choice if you're uncertain of someone's preferences. The Left and Right Banks are two Bordeaux winemaking regions separated by an estuary and two rivers. For the Cabernet Sauvignon drinker in your life, look to the Left Bank. If you're looking for something a little more plush, try a Right Bank Bordeaux. These wines are Merlot dominant, making them a silky delight to drink. 

We love the wines of Chateaux Puybarbe from the Cote de Bourg. These are delicious Merlot dominated reds with ripe dark fruits, rich and velvety with sweet spice and bold but smooth tannins, like a hug in a glass from one of our top exclusive producers and their wines.

Do you have a jaded palate on your hands? Never fear. With less often encountered varieties like the stellar Portuguese Touriga Nacional or luscious Southern Italians like Negroamaro or Primitivo, you'll not only give a fantastic gift, but also be giving the recipient something a little different. Plus they can be fantastic value for money.

One of our bestsellers is the Baglio Passimiento a gorgeous southern Italian wine that quickly wins over everyone who tries it. Bright intense red fruit on the nose displaying lots of sweet cherry and berry fruit. The palate is warm and full-bodied with harmonious acidity and smooth and elegant tannins. This has to be among the best red wine for a gift if you're looking to spend under £15 on a bottle. It looks the part too.

New World Wines are Just as Nice

If your giftee is partial to bold, fruity New World wines, juicy Malbecs from Argentina, ethereal Pinot Noir from New Zealand, or a class Californian Cabernet Sauvignon are all delicious. These are also great options for those of you wanting to buy wine that can skip the cellaring and be enjoyed right away.

Here are three of our favourites:

Folding Hill, Pinot Noir - New Zealand.

Full of dark berry fruits and spices with excellent structure and an earthy finish. This is from Central Otago, the top region for Pinot Noir in New Zealand. A great alternative to expensive Pinot Noir from France's Burgundy region.

Andreas Syrah - South Africa.

We have found some sensational wine from South Africa, and the best are terrific value for money for the quality you get.

Kate Says - "This is an outstanding wine from a tiny estate. It's really gorgeous rich and powerful but not overblown - just well made and gets better with every new vintage. One to have with something special."

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Benegas Estate Malbec 2020 - Argentina. 

If you're looking to go all out on a very special bottle, then wines made from the popular Malbec grape are a great choice. This is a top wine from Benegas Estate, one of our favourite producers.

Kate Says - "All you would expect from a big Malbec and more. Big intense fruit of course, but there's depth and breadth too and really good freshness throughout. It can age for a few years if you can resist it. It makes a superb gift."

4 Easy to Remember Wine Buying Tips

• It helps to have a sense of what your friend likes to drink. If you're unsure, buying a classic wine whether from the Old World or New World by a well-established producer is always a safe bet.   

• A high price tag doesn't always mean top quality. You can find great value at every price point.

• Vintages vary. Consider doing a little background check on the regions you're interested in before swiping your credit card.

• Don't be afraid to ask questions when you're browsing!

Shop our red wine collection here >

Need simple tips for buying wine?

Red wine is the answer for all your gift giving needs. Armed with these helpful suggestions, you'll never find yourself trying to scrape by with a last minute gift again. After all, purchasing wine should never be a hassle, whether as a gift or for yourself.

Do you have any tips on how to buy a bottle of red wine as a gift? If so, please share!

Wine Home Delivery

You can get your wine next day delivery Monday-Friday (if ordered by 2pm Monday -Thursday) and remember next day wine delivery is Free for orders over £100. Saturday Delivery is also available for an additional charge, you can see all our delivery details here.