The Red Wine Gift Guide

It’s the holiday season! I’m so excited, but I know that some of you are hiding from all the next-level holiday décor that is already out there. I’ve decorated to the nines, and I’m already stocking up on wines for gifting and drinking. If you’re like many holiday shoppers, you may get a little overwhelmed with all the wine options available for gifting. Not to worry — I’ve assembled a few ideas to take the uncertainty out of choosing wines to gift at various price points. Read on to find the perfect red wine to give for every type of drinker and price point.

“The connoisseur does not drink wine but tastes of its secrets” (Salvador Dali)

J. Vineyards Pinot Noir

A holiday party can offer a variety of flavors, foods and personalities. Bring a wine that is easy to drink with or without food. I suggest a pinot noir, which is lovingly known as the chicken of wine. This wine can easily be sipped while chatting with friends and colleagues and match any appetizer coming your way. And if your wine gift sits on a counter and is opened later, it will still be a hit!

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon

Don’t let this decision overwhelm you. If you want to impress your co-worker but not break the bank and don’t want to be embarrassed by a bad selection — look for a quality producer or a classic region that they will appreciate. This doesn’t mean the wine needs to be expensive. You can look for pinot noirs, malbecs, or Spanish Riojas. Bordeaux and new world blends also make great gifts. My go-to wine for corporate gifting is this stellar Stag’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon. Also, why not enhance any choice with engraving a bottle or a leather bottle holder to add a personal touch?

Renato Ratti Rocche dell’Annunziata Barolo DOCG

What do you get the person who spends way too much time looking at a wine list or tells endless stories about tromping through the vineyards of Tuscany? My pick is the Renato Ratti Barolo —a classic red wine from Northwest Italy derived from the Nebbiolo grape. This full-bodied wine is a wine lover's dream with its cherry, dried herbs delightfulness.

Marchesi di Barolo Barbaresco Tradizione

Barbaresco hides in the shadows of Barolo and is often referred to as the “junior Barolo.” Don’t let the “junior” part stop you from buying one. Marchesi di Barolo is a very well-respected delicious wine made from the same grape as Barolo and is typically a better value.

Pahlmeyer Cabernet Sauvignon

Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is a newer wine region in comparison to old-world wines. Who doesn’t like a delicious glass of Cabernet Sauvignon to savor? The great thing about Napa wines is that you can enjoy them now or cellar them to enjoy down the road. As with most wine regions, vintage and a good producer matter. 2018 and 2019 are both worth seeking out as both vintages were blessed with good growing conditions. Watch out for 2020 because, along with the pandemic, Napa experienced a heavy wildfire season. Many winemakers that I have spoken to were unable to even put wine in a bottle in 2020. Some winemakers did, which means quality and resulting profile vary.

Chateau Guadet St. Emilion Grand Cru 2014

Bordeaux is a famous wine region producing top quality wines from cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc (aka Bordeaux blend for reds). Bordeaux is always a blend of grapes, and this has to do with history, weather conditions and a safety net for grape ripening. In general, the left bank tends to be Cabernet Sauvignon dominant, giving stronger tannins and a deeper body. In contrast, the right bank is Merlot dominant, creating a softer, more fruit-driven wine. Saint-Émillion is the epicenter of fine wine growing and is acclaimed for its elegance in the glass. Chateau Guadet is a world-class producer who strives for sustainability and innovation. Don’t hesitate to pour a glass or two of this wine.

Don Melchor (Chile)

This wine is from Chile, which is not a country you might think of for quality wine. Hopefully, that perception will change quickly. This particular wine is as elegant as it is powerful. I have had the opportunity to taste these wines over the years. Every vintage shines. This is a Bordeaux blend and just trust me that this is a perfect gift and a magnificent wine!

Susana Balbo Nosotros Single Vineyard (Argentina)

Malbec has every reason to be celebrated, especially in malbec’s home, Argentina. Susana Balbo is the first woman in Argentina to earn a degree in enology, or the science and study of wine. She went on to create Susana Balbo winery and is consistently turning out quality wines. This wine is no exception!

AO Yun Cabernet Sauvignon (China)

This exciting new wine region for many aficionados may be unexpected for most gifters. This wine comes from Shangri-La in the foothills of the Himalayas. Ao Yu means “flying above the clouds.” Trust me; no one else is gifting this wine. It will be a truly unique and delicious example of a Bordeaux varietal.

Domaine Faiveley Nuits Saint Georges

Burgundy is a wine lover’s dream. This pinot noir is as delicate as it is savory. Bursting with wild berries with an aromatic personality. Whichever wine lover or novice you find yourself giving this to, rest assured that it will be a smashing success.

Penner-Ash Wine Cellars Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

I have a secret love affair with Willamette Valley, Oregon. To say that I am just a fan would be a complete understatement. I don’t know if it’s the people, the tranquility, or simply the delicious pinot noir. This specific pinot noir will not disappoint whoever the lucky recipient is.

If you don’t want to give the gift of actual wine, but your recipient is a wine lover, there are many other options for you. Why not have your wine lover sip on a sultry Bordeaux in new wine glasses from Waterford? Or casually hang out in their new wine-themed pajamas while choosing a bottle of wine on ReserveBar with a gift card? Whatever you gift — raise a glass and celebrate this holiday season!