Gifting red wine can be tough. There are so many different expressions on the market that it’s easy to default to an overpriced (and sometimes underwhelming) big-name bottle. Well, it doesn’t have to be that way. That’s why we’ve broken some of our favorite reds down into several categories for every gifting scenario to help you navigate the wine shop this holiday season.
Whether you’re buying for a loved one who enjoys sipping a bold Cab with a book during a snowstorm, a buddy who got into chilled porch-pounders this year, or a bestie who loves to nurse a glass while they cook ornate dinners, there’s a perfect bottle out there. Better yet, it doesn’t even have to be expensive. There are great value options that can seriously impress on a budget — but if you are looking to splurge, we have the scoop on which bottles are really worth it.
Read on to discover the seven best red wines to gift this year.
Best Budget Red: Bodega Aleanna ‘El Enemigo’ Malbec 2019
Best Splurge Red: Mayacamas Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Best Red Wine For Beginners: Bedrock Wine Co. Old Vine Zinfandel 2022
Best Red Wine for Geeks: Early Mountain Vineyards Young Wine Red 2022
Best Red Wine for Dinner Pairings: Argiolas Turriga 2019
Best Red Wine to Impress: Heitz Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Best Bang For Your Buck Red: Domaine Romaneaux-Destezet Hervé Souhaut Syrah 2022
Best Budget Red Bodega Aleanna ‘El Enemigo’ Malbec 2019
This Argentinian Malbec punches
