That’s how we should choose wine as a gift

So, what varietals should you bring to your best friend’s birthday party? Wines from California, Italy and Burgundy are having a major moment in 2016, and many are both delicious and highly collectable. These are not just wines for collectors, though. When giving wine as a gift from these three regions, you get the best value out of the purchase and the bottles could be the kickstart of your friend’s own future collection. My own collection started after being given a good Napa Valley bottle as a gift from a friend, and it was the first time I owned a bottle that was worth cellaring. Try Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Italian Barolo, or white Burgundy for some of the best wines from these regions.

Champagne and sparkling wine are consistent hits at parties, but for special occasions and close friends, you will want to splurge on one of the big Champagne houses, like Moët & Chandon, Krug, or Gosset. For a celebratory gift that’s more casual, Prosecco and Cava are fun and light alternatives to vintage Champagne.

Choose Bordeaux Grand Cru wines from 2005 for a high-quality vintage that makes a special occasion even more special. Many serious collectors have been afraid to give away Bordeaux in recent years, since the quality has fluctuated. However, 2005 is one of the most consistently amazing vintages in recent history, and it makes a gift that is sure to be appreciated by wine lovers.