If you’re thinking of buying a case of wine for a friend, colleague, or acquaintance who is a discerning wine lover or has an extensive wine collection, you’re making a great choice! While picking out a single bottle could be overwhelming, putting you in a dilemma of “red wine versus white wine” or “Bordeaux blend versus Cabernet Sauvignon,” a mixed case of wine can smartly elevate your gifting skills.

‌A wine case as a gift will deliver more than just 12 bottles — it will add a touch of extravagance and speak volumes of your knowledge and prudence. Have fun creating a customized case with a mix of different colors, types, vintages, and varietals of wine, or choose wines from different countries and regions. Here are a few tips for building an impressive case of wine for someone who knows its worth.‌‌

Consider the Recipient and the Occasion When Buying a Case of Wine

Understanding the recipient and purpose of the gift will help you narrow your search. Ask yourself a few questions before you start planning out your case.

• What is the occasion? If you’re attending a special event such as a wedding or an award celebration where this case will be a gift for a wine lover, consider including rarer wines. 
• Are you buying a case of wine for a party host? Consider including the most appropriate and appetizing wines that will pair well with the party menu (different types of pizza, Chinese food, a vegan theme, etc.).
• Does your friend already have a splendid wine collection? What kinds of wines have you noticed often in the recipient’s home wine cellar? If you have an idea of the specific types of wine the recipient appreciates, including their favorites when planning your case of wine can be a great idea.

‌If you have limited to no knowledge about your giftee’s taste, don’t worry. Based on your wine preferences and budget, you can still succeed in buying a perfect case of wine.‌

Building the Perfect Case of Wine: Bottle by Bottle

A pre-assembled mixed case of wine may be easy to just pick and gift, but it’s not ideal. You may find it tricky to replace a bottle or two with something you believe is sure to delight your giftee. The best option then is to build a customized case of wine. If you aren’t sure what kinds of wines your giftee likes, go for a completely mixed case that includes a little of everything. Here’s what you should choose.‌

Four Bottles of Red Wine

‌Red Bordeaux blends are known for their deep flavors and treasured for their aging potential. Pick a Bordeaux blend wine and add a bottle each of Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Merlot to your case.

Cabernet Sauvignon, a dry and versatile varietal, is made from one of the world’s most famous red wine grape varieties.‌  Pinot Noir has a lighter color, more fruit forward flavors, and bright acidity. Merlot wines, full- to medium-bodied and with a smooth texture, are known for offering a luxurious mouthfeel. All are sure to add character to your gift.‌

Four Bottles of White Wine

When you’re buying wine by the case, including four bottles of white wine is fair, especially if you’re offering them during the summer season.‌

California Chardonnay, a dry and vibrant varietal, is one of the most popular types of white wine and works as a wonderful gift even at significant events such as weddings. Sauvignon Blanc is another popular varietal. It’s high in acidity and is intriguingly crisp. Bordeaux Blanc from France is a dry and rich wine varietal, while Riesling is a light, often off-dry or sweet white wine. Including these in your case will ensure your giftee has a wide range to choose from.‌

Two Bottles of Sparkling Wine

These bottles will add an air of elegance and sophistication to the overall case. You can choose from a more exotic single variety sparkling wine made from Chardonnay or Pinot Meunier, as well as the more commonly found  Champagne blends to choose from. Or just pick two of the best-selling sparkling wines if you want to make your search easier.‌

Two Bottles of Rosé Wine

Every shade of rosé wine has a story to tell, and a pair of lovely pink rosé wines that are rich, fruity, and energizing can be a wonderful addition to your case of wine.‌

Pinot noir rosé has a fruity and floral flavor and is fairly dry on the palate. You may also consider adding the generally dry Grenache rosé wine that has a surprisingly sweet zest and a lively mix of fruit and spice flavors.

Permutations and Combinations for Buying Wine by the Case

Now that your base case is planned, it’s time to up the ante. Think of other possibilities that would please the giftee. If your wine connoisseur friend has a sweet tooth‌, replace a bottle in the above list with a dessert wine such as a Sauternes from France or a good vintage port wine.‌

‌If wines from a specific vintage could signify a memorable milestone, why not build your case of wine around it? That would reflect the effort and thoughtfulness that has gone into the gift case.‌

‌Then, take a look at your cart value. It’s appropriate to go mid-range to high-end while buying a case of wine for a discerning wine lover who already has a great wine collection.‌

Buy Your Next Gift for Wine Lovers at JJ Buckley

Now that your mixed case of wine is planned and ready in the cart, go through it one last time. Make sure it includes the right varieties of wine styles and the right balance of flavors you were looking for. Every wine listing on JJ Buckley Fine Wines has detailed information about the bottle on sale to make it easy to find great gifts for wine lovers.

If you still feel overwhelmed by choice and need further assistance, don’t worry. JJ Buckley Fine Wines has wine specialists always available to assist buyers who need honest and impartial personalized wine consultation services. You’ll soon have a perfect gift that will find a special place in your friend, host, or colleague’s wine collection.