Liquor Laboratory

15 Best Wine for Christmas Gift: A Merry Toast (2024)

Best Wine for Christmas Gift

As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the joy of gifting your loved ones a carefully selected bottle of wine.

Having savored the flavors of countless vintages over the years, we can’t wait to share our favorite bottles for the perfect Christmas gift.

Whether you’re seeking a bold red wine, a crisp white wine, fortified wine, or a sparkling wine, check out below the best wine for Christmas gift – in time for the upcoming holiday parties.

Top 15 Wines To Wrap For A Holiday Party

1. 2015 Masseto Toscana IGT

Bottle of 2015 Masseto Toscana IGT on a Desk

Average Price: Roughly $1,043/750ml (Vivino)

Alcohol Content: 14.5% ABV

Nose: Blackcurrant, cranberry, spice

Palate: Dense dried fruit

Star Rating: ★★★★★

Why We Like It: We recommend Masseto Toscana 2015 as an extraordinary Christmas gift choice for those who like something unique. It’s incredibly versatile, which makes it an ideal gift for Christmas Eve.

Christmas is merrier with wine, the gift of warmth and cheer.” – Liquor Laboratory

Yes, it’s pricey, but given the exceptional quality and luxury it brings to the Christmas dinner table, this is the perfect gift for wine enthusiasts looking to celebrate in style. But what’s the best red wine to give as a gift?

2. Armand de Brignac Ace of Spades Silver Blanc de Blancs

Person Holding Bottle of Armand de Brignac Ace of Spades Silver Blanc de Blancs

Average Price: Approximately $733/750ml (Wine-Searcher)

Alcohol Content: 12.5% ABV

Nose: White truffle, earthy notes

Palate: Tree fruit, elegant

Star Rating: ★★★★★

Why We Like It: This sparkling wine oozes elegance, perfect for your classy friends. While it’s on the higher end in terms of price, it’s well worth the investment for an extraordinary Christmas wine.

With its unparalleled sophistication and quality, this sparkling wine is perfect for celebrating the Christmas days and impressing wine connoisseurs.

Learn how to choose a good wine here.

3. 2015 Coche-Dury Meursault

Bottle and a Glass of 2015 Coche-Dury Meursault on a Table

Average Price: Approximately $902/750ml (VinoVest)

Alcohol Content: 13.5% ABV

Nose: Citrus, floral aromas

Palate: Vanilla, butter, oak

Star Rating: ★★★★★

Why We Like It: Made from Chardonnay grapes, the 2015 Coche-Dury Meursault white wine is a good wine gift for the holiday season, exuding a nuanced nose and flavorful palate with a long finish.

While it comes at a premium price, this wine is a perfect present for wine fanatics who appreciate the finest French Chardonnay grapes.

4. 2019 Egon Muller Scharzhofberger Riesling Kabinett

Bottle and a Glass of 2019 Egon Muller Scharzhofberger Riesling Kabinett and a Grapes

Average Price: Around $186/750ml (Wine-Searcher)

Alcohol Content: 9% ABV

Nose: Petrol, fruity

Palate: Apple, pear, delicate minerality

Star Rating: ★★★★☆

Why We Like It: This is the perfect wine for loved ones who prefer elegant fragrances and a refreshing, racy experience.

The bright acidity adds a sharpness perfect for a holiday party and even special occasions.

5. 2018 Caymus Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)

Man Holding Bottle of 2018 Caymus Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)

Average Price: Roughly $116/750ml (Wine-Searcher)

Alcohol Content: 15.7% ABV

Nose: Red cherry

Palate: Velvet tannins, blackberry, chocolate

Star Rating: ★★★★☆

Why We Like It: Given the price, this Cabernet Sauvignon is a luxurious wine gift choice for Christmas. The tasting notes impose a festive touch, and its balance pairs beautifully with any Christmas meal.

This great wine is a perfect gift for classy wine lovers and a fine bottle at a dinner table.

6. 2016 Domaine Zind-Humbrecht Pinot Gris Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain

Bottle of 2016 Domaine Zind-Humbrecht Pinot Gris Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain and a Glass

Average Price: Approximately $115/750ml (Wine-Searcher)

Alcohol Content: 12.5% ABV

Nose: Mirabelle plum, beeswax, gooseberry, white flowers

Palate: Flavorful, rich, lively acidity

Star Rating: ★★★★☆

Why We Like It: This captivating Pinot Gris from Alsace boasts enchanting aromas alongside an excellent palate. It’s a good wine gift for those who like unique and flavorful experiences.

The quality and complexity justify the price, which adds a memorable thrill to a Christmas celebration or any holiday party.

7. 2017 Domaine Prieure Roch Bourgogne ‘Roses’ Rose

3 Bottles of 2017 Domaine Prieure Roch Bourgogne 'Roses' Rose

Average Price: Roughly $155.61/750ml (Vivino)

Alcohol Content: 12.5% ABV

Nose: Raspberry, vibrant

Palate: Fresh, silky, complex

Star Rating: ★★★★☆

Why We Like It: This is an exhilarating Pinot Noir blush wine that makes a delightful Christmas gift for any wine lover.

With a balanced and long finish, it’s a fine choice for pairing with red meats and green vegetables. It provides a unique and enjoyable wine experience, making it one of the standout Christmas wines.

8. 2011 R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Gran Reserva Rosado

2011 R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Gran Reserva Rosado Bottle on a Desk

Average Price: Around $125/750ml (Wine-Searcher)

Alcohol Content: 12% ABV

Nose: Fresh, herbal notes

Palate: Intense, acidic, red fruit, spice, minerality

Star Rating: ★★★★☆

Why We Like It: This red blend is a unique delight. The intense, acidic palate leads to a long, satisfying finish.

Among other red wines on this list, R. Lopez boasts complexity and character, making it a standout choice for gifting on Christmas day. This will surely impress wine fans with its distinctive flavors and quality.

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9. 2004 Gramona Enoteca Brut Nature

Average Price: Around $83/750ml (Vivino) 

Alcohol Content: 12% ABV

Nose: Hazelnut, subtle 

Palate: Dry, toast, butter, elegant mineral finish

Star Rating: ★★★☆☆ 

Why We Like It: If you want to surprise your loved ones on Christmas day, this 2004 Gramona Enoteca Brut Nature wine makes a splendid Christmas gift.

Its traditional blend delivers an elegant dry palate and an elegant mineral finish. It’s one of the best wines, yet not that high priced. Its sophistication and refined taste make it a worthy choice.

10. 2019 Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc

Man Holding Bottle of 2019 Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc

Average Price: Around $39.99/750ml (Wine.com)

Alcohol Content: 13.1% ABV

Nose: Citrus, rose petals

Palate: Tropical fruit, gooseberry, grass, ginger

Star Rating: ★★★☆☆

Why We Like It: This 2019 Sauvignon Blanc is a beloved New Zealand classic, perfect for gifting during the holidays.

Like Pinot Grigio, we like how this elegant white wine pairs well with vegetarian dishes and goat cheese, making it a versatile choice for any Christmas dinner. But do you know what’s the driest white wine?

11. 2017 Catena Zapata ‘Catena’ Malbec

Close Up Image of 2017 Catena Zapata 'Catena' Malbec Bottle Label

Average Price: Roughly $21/750ml (Wine-Searcher)

Alcohol Content: 13.5% ABV

Nose: Rich berries 

Palate: Dark fruits, spice

Star Rating: ★★★☆☆ 

Why We Like It: This 2017 Catena Malbec is the perfect bottle for those who like luscious dark fruit and chocolate notes with some spicy notes. It’s a perfect pairing for cheese platters during the holiday festive period.

Besides being a great gift, the well-balanced palate is a delightful addition to any special occasion or holiday table.

12. 2017 Hartford Family Winery Hartford Court Land’s Edge Vineyards Pinot Noir

2017 Hartford Family Winery Hartford Court Land's Edge Vineyards Pinot Noir Bottle and a Glass

Average Price: Around $46.99/750ml (Vivino)

Alcohol Content: 14.5% ABV

Nose: Opulent dark fruit

Palate: Fine tannin, fresh acidity

Star Rating: ★★★☆☆

Why We Like It: For a Pinot Noir wine lover, you can’t go wrong with the 2017 Hartford Family Pinot Noir. Made from Pinot Noir grapes, it oozes with pleasant minerality, tannins [1], and acidity.

It’s a sophisticated choice for a Christmas wine gift, perfect for wine lovers who appreciate the complexity and structure of wine.

13. 2018 Chateau Miraval Cotes de Provence Rose Sparkling Wine

Man Drinking 2018 Chateau Miraval Cotes de Provence Rose Sparkling Wine

Average Price: Around $23.99/750ml (Wine.com)

Alcohol Content: 13% ABV

Nose: Strawberry, cherry

Palate: Citrus, melon, apple, medium acidity

Star Rating: ★★★☆☆

Why We Like It: If you feel like giving sparkling wines, this 2018 Chateau Miraval Rose is a stunning choice for a Christmas wine gift.

Any wine lover will surely like the rich layers of fruity notes on the palate with a pleasant aftertaste, making it a refreshing and elegant choice for festive occasions.

14. 2020 Chateau d’Esclans Cotes de Provence Whispering Angel Rose

Person Drinking 2020 Chateau d'Esclans Cotes de Provence Whispering Angel Rose

Average Price: Around $24.99/750ml (Wine.com)

Alcohol Content: 13.5% ABV

Nose: Red fruit, elegant 

Palate: Dry, red fruit, refreshing minerality

Star Rating: ★★★☆☆

Why We Like It: This 2020 Chateau d’Esclans Cotes Angel Rose is a good gift choice. Its dry and light character makes it a crowd-pleaser. Actually, it’s a good mix with orange juice served with ice cubes.

This classic Rose embodies elegance and is perfect for a Christmas party celebration with friends and family.

15. La Marca Prosecco

Woman Holding Bottle of La Marca Prosecco

Average Price: Roughly $18.99/750ml (MSRP)

Alcohol Content: 11.01% ABV

Nose: Citrus, fruity, sweet spices

Palate: Lemon, grapefruit, apple, honey, mineral

Star Rating: ★★★★☆ 

Why We Like It: If you’re looking for a dessert wine that pairs well with lemon curd, Christmas pudding, and other decadent desserts, we suggest considering La Marca Prosecco.

“A bottle of wine begs to be shared; I have never met a miserly wine lover.” – Clifton Fadiman, American Intellectual

Its mid-acidity and playful bubbles add to its appeal. And if you’re on a budget, this Prosecco [2] is the ideal wine choice for a merry Christmas.

*Note: The star rating was determined based on a blind test, with 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest. Each product was evaluated on its overall quality, flavor profile, complexity, smoothness, and overall enjoyment.

FAQs Related to Best Wine for Christmas Gift

Is wine an appropriate Christmas gift?

Yes, wine is an appropriate Christmas gift, offering warmth and celebration during the festive season.

What is a good red wine for a Christmas gift?

A good red wine for a Christmas gift could be a Bordeaux, Cabernet Sauvignon [3], or Pinot Noir. The best red wine still depends on the recipient’s taste preferences. For whites, try Pinot Grigio.

What does it mean when you give wine as a gift?

Giving wine [4] as a gift often signifies appreciation, celebration, or a wish for enjoyment and relaxation.

Are there specific types of wine that are considered ideal for Christmas gifts?

Red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir are popular choices for Christmas gifts due to their versatility and ability to pair well with festive meals. However, white wines, sparkling wines, and dessert wines are also appreciated.

Can you recommend a universally appealing wine for Christmas gifting?

A classic choice for Christmas gifting is a well-balanced and elegant Cabernet Sauvignon or a versatile Chardonnay. These wines are widely enjoyed and can complement a variety of holiday dishes.

Are there any special considerations when selecting wine as a Christmas gift?

Consider the recipient’s preferences and any dietary restrictions they may have. Additionally, think about the occasion and whether the wine will be enjoyed with a specific meal or shared during holiday festivities.

Should I opt for a traditional wine or explore unique and unusual options for gifting?

It depends on the recipient’s taste and preferences. Traditional wines like Bordeaux or Champagne are safe choices, but unique and lesser-known wines from boutique wineries can also make memorable gifts for wine enthusiasts.

Key Takeaways

Considering all factors, such as overall quality, flavor profile, complexity, and smoothness, the 2015 Masseto Toscana IGT stands as the best gifting wine. Its luxury and quality make it a standout choice.

However, remember that the best wines ultimately depend on the recipient’s taste.

We suggest exploring various affordable and extravagant options to find the best wines that will bring joy and delight this Christmas.

References:

  1.  https://www.fs.usda.gov/wildflowers/ethnobotany/tannins.shtml#
  2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0268005X12002123
  3. https://news.yahoo.com/boxed-cabernet-sauvignon-160-deal-170000012.html
  4. https://www.britannica.com/topic/wine
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