Wines for gifts

A bottle given as a gift is not always opened the day it arrives. Some go with dinner that same evening; others wait for a birthday, a wedding anniversary or a child’s 21st. Before you choose, ask yourself when the cork will be pulled: the label then helps you find the right bottle.

Vintage and Aging: Reading the Label on a Gift Bottle

The vintage on the label is the year the grapes were harvested. EU rules allow it only when at least 85% of the grapes were picked that year. So the vintage of a birth, a first meeting or a wedding gives you a wine from the harvest of the year you are celebrating.

In Champagne, a year appears only on vintage bottlings. They cannot be released until at least 36 months after bottling, compared with 15 months for non-vintage Champagne. A vintage Champagne therefore reaches you at least three years after the harvest it shows.

For a date far in the future, choose a wine made to age. Sauternes makes sweet white wines that can age for several decades. A Pommard Premier Cru or a red Châteauneuf-du-Pape is also a good pick for a bottle meant to wait a few years.

Wines to Gift – Share the Discovery of a Unique Universe

Gifting a bottle of wine is more than just a gesture—it’s an invitation to explore flavors, meet passionate winemakers, and experience an exceptional terroir. Whether it's a powerful red, an elegant white, a refined rosé, or an outstanding champagne, every bottle tells a story and offers an unforgettable experience.

Gifting a Red, White, or Rosé Wine – A Unique Sensory Experience

A red wine for those who love character: Discover the richness of great Bordeaux, the finesse of Burgundies, or the intensity of Rhône Valley wines.

A white wine for lovers of freshness: From a refined Chardonnay to a vibrant Sauvignon or an aromatic Jurançon, the choices are endless.

An elegant rosé, synonymous with pleasure and conviviality: Delicate, fruity cuvées perfect for warm days.

Gifting Champagne – The Art of Celebration

Whether it’s a delicate Blanc de Blancs, an intense Blanc de Noirs, or an exceptional vintage champagne, this is the perfect gift for marking life’s special moments. Its finesse and brilliance make it a symbol of festivity and refinement.

Gifting a Meeting with a Winemaker and Their Terroir

Behind every wine is a terroir artist, passionately crafting each cuvée. Gifting a wine also means introducing someone to the meticulous work of a dedicated winemaker, their story, and the soul of their region. Whether from a small family estate or a renowned vineyard, each bottle is a journey into exceptional craftsmanship.

A Tailored Gift for Every Occasion

• For a birthday: A special vintage that leaves a lasting impression.
• For a wedding: An elegant cuvée to share with loved ones.
• For Christmas: A refined selection to enjoy with family.
• To thank a friend or colleague: A tasting box that will impress.

Food & Wine Pairings – A Complete Experience

Pairing a wine with a dish enhances its aromas:

• A great red wine with a fine cut of meat.
• A mineral white wine with seafood.
• A vintage champagne with a chocolate dessert.

Gift a wine, gift a story, gift an emotion!

Frequently Asked Questions About Wine Gifts

Can you give a wine from someone’s birth year?

Yes, you can give a wine from someone’s birth year, as long as it is a wine that could age that long. For a newborn, choose a long-aging wine such as Sauternes and give it on their 21st birthday or later. For an adult, older vintages get scarce, so the year of their wedding works just as well.

Should you give a wine that is ready to drink or one to age?

Give a ready-to-drink wine if it will be opened in the coming months, and a wine to age if it is meant for a specific date. An age-worthy wine opened too early can taste closed, with its aromas still holding back. A ready-to-drink wine, on the other hand, gains nothing from years of waiting.

What wine should you give as a thank-you gift?

As a thank-you gift, give a ready-to-drink wine that can be opened without waiting for a special occasion. A brut Champagne or a dry white is easy to share as an aperitif. If you know the region they love, a wine from there makes your thanks more personal.

Where can you buy a wine gift direct from the winemaker?

You can buy a wine gift direct from the winemaker on Avenue des Vins. Each bottle is shipped by the producer who made it, with no middleman.

See also: Discovery hamper: the winemaker's selection! - Gift boxes - Large Formats