Wine Gift Etiquette: Tips, Dos and Don’ts

Giving wine as a gift during the holiday season is a great go-to option for many. However, it’s not always easy to know what kind of gift to go for, with many nuances to consider making sure the gift goes down as well as can be.

So, for part one of our Gift Series this year, here’s a helpful guide to Christmas wine gift etiquette with our ten top tips on those important dos and don’ts.

TIP ONE – Know the Recipient’s Preferences

Try to learn about the wines that the recipient likes.

Do they love their big, bold reds?

If so, then a rich Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel might be ideal.

Are they a fan of cool, crisp whites?

Then maybe we’re looking towards a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio.

Try not to guess randomly if you don’t know their preferences. If you’re unsure, aim for universally enjoyed wines like Champagne or a luxurious Pinot Noir. They are generally crowd-pleasers at this time of year.

Great Option for a Crowd Pleaser

Sparkling Wine Option: Grower Series Deux Fois Champagne
A safe and quality choice without breaking your wallet.

Still Wine Option: Baxter, Black Label Pinot Noir, California, USA
Pinot Noir is easily wine enthusiasts’ favourite grape. This is a generous version from Anderson Valley. Great quality without the Burgundy price tag.

TIP TWO – Consider the Occasion

Think about how and when the wine will be consumed.

Is it a gift for a party host?

A sparkling wine or something easy to pair with various dishes can be a great choice.

Is it for the recipient to enjoy in their own time?

Maybe something a bit more unique or aged could be a thoughtful choice.
It’s important not to assume the wine will be opened that same evening you gift it to the host. Remember, they may already have the wine list planned that night.

Great Option for a Party Wine

Sparkling Wine Option: Bee Tree by Sugrue Rosé Pinot Noir 2020
A fruit-driven and moreish English Fizz with a touch of subtle strawberry sweetness…no doubt a crowd-pleaser choice!

TIP THREE – Presentation Matters

Presentation is everything! A beautiful wine bag, box, or gift wrapping instantly elevates a bottle, making it feel like a thoughtful gift. Add a handwritten card with a personal message or even a few serving suggestions, and you’ve shown you’ve put real thought into it. Avoid simply handing over an unwrapped bottle—it’ll look like you grabbed it last minute.

A few thoughtful details go a long way in making your gift truly unforgettable.

TIP FOUR – Choose the Right Price Range

Think about whether the price you pay is appropriate to your relationship with the recipient. You may, for example, want to spend more on close friends or family as opposed to simple acquaintances.

It’s very important not to feel pressured to overspend. While premium bottles are impressive, there are plenty of quality wines available at reasonable prices, so focus on quality over cost.

TIP FIVE – Avoid Overly Personal Wines

When giving wine to a boss, client, or colleague, it’s advisable to choose classic and refined options such as Champagne, Merlot, or Chardonnay. These selections convey professionalism and good taste.

Avoid choosing highly specific or quirky wines if you don’t know the recipient well, as even the most thoughtful gifts can miss the mark in such cases.

Great Option for the Refined Choice

Classic White Burgundy: Bourcier Martinot, Viré Clessé, Burgundy, France
A text book example of classic wine from a classic region. Hard to not like a White Burgundy!

Classic Rioja Reserva: Vinicola Real 200 Monges Reserva 2013
Another classic for red wine option and one that go hand-in-hand with many seasonal dishes.

TIP SIX – Sparkling Wines are Always a Festive Choice

If in doubt, bubbles are always a safe bet in the festive period. Champagne, Prosecco, and Cava are universally festive and suited to celebrations. Remember, don’t limit yourself to just Champagne, especially if it’s outside your budget. There are fantastic sparkling wines at all price points, including Prosecco and Crémant, they are equally suited to holiday gifting. Also, they often look premium and nice as a gift!

Great Option for the Choice of Bubbles

Alternative to Champagne: Justin Boxler, Crémant D’Alsace, France
Not any less than Champagne with its fineness, lingering pastry-like finish and depth of layers.

TIP SEVEN – Take Diets and Cultures into Account

Be mindful if you know the recipient has dietary preferences or restrictions. For example, some wines are vegan, organic, or biodynamic. Opting for a wine that aligns with the recipient’s lifestyle, if you know it, shows attention to detail and respect for their preferences. If you’re unsure, always check with the labelling or simply ask the retailer!

In a similar vein, think through any cultural or religious considerations, as some individuals may not drink alcohol for personal or religious reasons. If you’re uncertain, consider non-alcoholic sparkling wines or grape juice as thoughtful alternatives. Remember that a little research can go a long way in making sure your gift is respectful and appropriate.

Great Option for Alcohol-Free

NON 5, Lemon Marmalade and Hibiscus, Australia
Cooked with real and organic ingredients. This is an non-alcoholic beverage made by a group of chef to create an option that is for everyone for every occasion.

TIP EIGHT – Give Wine Accessories as an Added Touch

This does take a bit more effort, but consider gifting the wine with a small accessory, like a stylish corkscrew, wine stopper, or a set of glasses. This can make the gift feel more complete, especially for wine enthusiasts who might appreciate adding them to their collection. They are also far easier to personalise, especially for those looking to add personal messages or corporate branding.

It’s important, of course, not to go overboard. Accessories should complement the wine rather than overshadow it, and no one likes to receive things that will sit in their kitchen drawers gathering dust. Keep it simple and, above all, useful!

Great Option for Wine Accessories

Coravin Timeless, Model Three PLUS
A wine enthusiast’s dream gift….

TIP NINE – Size Options for Gifting

If your gift is meant to be shared, especially if you’re attending a party, consider a magnum bottle (1.5 litres), or an even larger format. It’s a strange truism that although these larger bottles contain the same wine as regular-sized bottles, they seem to create a more festive impression and can add excitement to a gathering.

We do need to remember, however, about when this wine is to be enjoyed. Large-format bottles work for sharing. If the recipient is planning to drink it on their own, then a single standard bottle (750 ml) is still the way forward for individual gifting.

Magnum doesn’t have to be pricey, our range starts from £30 and you will get a vintage 2020 Cape blend!

Explore our magnums and large-format range

TIP TEN – Vintage Wines: Proceed with Care

Gifting vintage or aged wines can be great, especially if you know the recipient is a wine lover. Vintage wines can be a meaningful, memorable gift, especially if they are rare or have a particular significance (such as a birth year or special anniversary).

BUT, be aware! Vintage wines can be quite nuanced in flavours and ageing requirements. If you’re unsure of the recipient’s taste or if they’re not accustomed to wine storage, it may be better to stay safe with other, more easily poured and enjoyed crowd-pleasers.

Explore our full range of vintage and library wines.

Final Thoughts

Gifting wine for Christmas can be a thoughtful and well-received gesture, especially when done with a bit of care and consideration. By selecting a wine that suits the recipient’s preferences, presenting it nicely, and adding a personal touch, your gift can convey the warmth and appreciation that you’re hoping for.

We hope that these tips will help ensure that your wine gift is both enjoyed and remembered fondly.

Next in our Wine Gift Series: Eco-Friendly Wine Gifts for Christmas

This Blog post is written by Mike Turner
Freelance wine writer, presenter and judge

Mike is a regular contributor for The Buyer magazine and is a certified educator and ambassador for Bordeaux, Rioja, Ribera Del Duero, Barolo and Barbaresco, running trade and consumer events across the UK from his base in the East Midlands.