How to Buy Wine for a Gift

How to Buy Wine for a Gift

Relaxing with good friends and exquisite wine – it seems only fitting to experience life this way. Who has no friends who love wine? Giving (and receiving) the gift of wine is a special thrill.

On the other hand, you have a few decisions to make. After all, wine is personal, like clothing, jewelry or music. The great thing about this: your gift can be both unique and genuinely appreciated. If the recipient is family or a close friend, choosing is much easier. You may already know what they want (Editor's Note, or simply like, such as anything from Napa Valley or Paso Robles).

However, some worry that others, especially their boss, coworkers or business clients may not like their choice. In any case, you may have a number of questions.

What kind of wine should I buy – red, white or sparkling?

Should it be foreign or domestic?

How much should I spend?

First of all, think of the occasion. Wedding gifts are usually more elaborate than hostess gifts. A variety of bottles helps a new couple start building their collection (Editor's Note: we see newlywed gift message often come across in our wine clubs because they show up every month and do exactly as has been described).

If you are giving wine as a business gift, a Chardonnay or Merlot pleases most people. You might even want to include personalized wrapping or labels. Dinner parties seldom require the most expensive or exotic. You have a number of choices in the $20 to $50 range to wow your friends. What is your budget? You probably know that wines can be anywhere from a few to several thousand dollars. Chances are, unless your friend is the most finicky oenophile, they may not appreciate a gift that costs thousands. Unless you are making a statement or have too much cash, avoid overspending.

Will foreign or domestic be better? If you are in France at a French restaurant, by all means, go ahead and get the French bubbly. Oui! Otherwise, domestic wines are a great option. You and your friends will appreciate you are supporting local business. Not only that, domestic wines these days stand up to and often exceed foreign wines for quality.

Which varietal is best? Some of your friends may prefer a buttery Chardonnay. If you don't know what your friends like, keep the following in mind. Even if it is a hundred degrees outside, three fourths of American wine drinkers at a party will ask for red. If you are outside, go for a lighter red, such as a Pinot noir or Merlot (Editor's Note: everyone continues to disregard Grenache and that's a shame).

Are you sitting around the fireplace in the middle of winter? Bolder wines can warm your soul. Where should you get the wine? Physical stores get you a bottle of wine quickly. Nonetheless, if you desire higher end enjoyment, online sources are a far better option.

Internet retailers are definitely not all the same. Some offer gift baskets with low-cost afterthoughts. Only with careful shopping, can you find exceptionally paired cheeses, chocolates and spreads. Even fewer still are obsessed with hand-sourcing wines from local vineyards. If you are looking for a truly one of a kind offering – one that will convince your loved ones and special friends that you are amazing – find the best online retailer and send their wine club membership as a gift.

Choosing wine should be simple. When it comes to enjoying wine, it is truly all about the experience. Get the experience right and everyone will enjoy the wine. Unless, of course the wine is awful – and that is just not going to happen with what you have learned here!