Show the wine lover in your life that you understand them by finding a gift that complements their habits. A casual wine drinker may appreciate an accessory that makes opening or storing a bottle simpler, while someone who loves hosting might get more use out of serving pieces. And people who enjoy learning about wine or building a collection may prefer educational gifts and tasting kits.

Instacart Shoppers can deliver many of these gifts right to your recipient's door. And with wine and wine accessories across a range of prices, it's easy to personalize your present.

Everyday wine accessories

If someone enjoys a glass of wine with dinner a few nights a week, it’s the little things that make the ritual feel effortless. Accessories that simplify opening, storing and serving wine make practical gifts because they'll likely get used long after a special occasion. They're also easy to send with a bottle if you want a more complete gift.

Wine openers and corkscrews

A good wine opener is something most wine drinkers reach for again and again, so it's worth choosing one that fits their habits. 

• Electric wine openers are a great option for people who prioritize convenience or who host regularly, since they make it quick to open several bottles without much effort.

• Waiter-style corkscrews are compact enough to keep in a kitchen drawer or picnic basket. Many corkscrew openers also have a foil cutter, making it easier to expose the corkscrew. 

Wine stoppers and preservation tools

If the recipient you have in mind prefers a glass of wine with dinner or sampling different varietals throughout the week, chances are they won’t finish a bottle in one evening. A vacuum pump or reusable wine stopper makes it easy to keep the wine fresh and full of flavor until they’re ready for their next pour. 

Wine chillers and serving accessories

A wine chiller is perfect for cooling beverages such as sauvignon blanc or prosecco. Wine chillers help keep the bottle at a consistent serving temperature so hosts don’t have to run to the refrigerator while entertaining or sitting down for dinner. 

If the freedom to enjoy wine at a picnic or outdoor gathering is a priority, you can also opt for an insulated wine tumbler. These are sturdier than traditional stemware and also take condensation and spills out of the equation. 

Wine gifts for hosts and entertainers

For someone who loves inviting people over, the best gift isn’t always the flashiest. Sometimes, it’s the reliable piece that comes out every time friends stop by, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering. 

Wine glasses

A fresh set of wine glasses is one of those gifts that's hard to go wrong with, especially if your wine-loving friend enjoys hosting. These days, many hosts choose a glass to suit their environment — stemmed glasses offer a more traditional look for dinner parties, while stemless options are easy to hold and fit naturally into more relaxed gatherings.

Alternatively, you can choose based on the recipient’s drinking preferences. Choose a:

• Stemmed wine glass if they enjoy crisp and floral wines that taste best when cool; this will keep the warmth of their hand from affecting the drink’s flavor.

• Stemless wine glass if they drink reds that don’t require strict temperature control, especially if they like to drink in comfort. 

Glassware may be a splurge item, but it's a gift that goes the distance, since most people use it until it chips or breaks.

Wine serving accessories

Wine serving accessories tend to be more budget-friendly, so don't hesitate to add a couple of extras. They'll help your recipient spend less time running back and forth to the kitchen and more time enjoying the company. Here are a few good options to start with:

• Serving tray: Carry wine, glasses, napkins, dishes and appetizers to the table in one trip.

• Decanter: Serve wine at the table with a side of style. Decanters also help aerate many red wines before pouring.

• Stainless steel ice cubes: Chill individual glasses of wine without watering them down.

• Cloth napkins: Add a polished touch to the table and help guests manage spills or condensation.

• Wine opener: Pop open bottles quickly to serve a waiting crowd.

• Drip collar: Catch stray drips while pouring to help keep bottles and table linens clean.

• Coasters: Protect tables from moisture rings and give guests a designated place to set their glasses.

• Ice bucket: Keep white, rosé, and sparkling wines chilled in an ice bucket nearby.

• Cooled garnish compartment: Keeps sliced citrus, herbs or other garnishes fresh and within easy reach for wine spritzes or sangrias.

Wine totes

Wine totes are useful for picnics and outdoor events, where you need to transport bottles without worrying about spills and leaks. Look for options with insulated compartments or extra space for glasses and accessories.

Food gifts that pair well with wine

Food can make a bottle of wine feel like a complete gift, but there's no single pairing that's right for everyone. The best combinations depend on the recipient's tastes and the wines they usually enjoy. 

When in doubt, stick with tried-and-true pairings. 

Serving boards and snack trays

A wooden serving board or snack tray gives wine lovers an easy way to put together an appetizer spread without much planning. Start with a few cheeses, crackers and cured meats, then round out the charcuterie board with fresh fruit, olives, nuts or a favorite jam or honey.

You don't need dozens of ingredients to make a snack tray feel special. A handful of complementary flavors is often enough to create a tasting board that's easy to share before dinner or enjoy with a bottle on the patio.

Sweets

Chocolate is one of the easiest desserts to gift alongside wine, though people’s preferences vary. If your recipient isn’t picky, the usual pairings are:

• Dark chocolate: The bittersweet flavor often complements bold red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec or Syrah.

• Milk chocolate: Its creamy sweetness pairs nicely with lighter reds like Pinot Noir or richer sparkling wines like Champagne.

• White chocolate: Sweet, buttery white chocolate works well with sweet or fruity wines like Moscato or Riesling. 

• Chocolate with inclusions: Choose candy with a filling that pairs well with your wine’s dominant flavor. Caramel and nuts work well with richer reds or dessert wines, while fruit-filled chocolates complement fruit-forward reds, rosés or sparkling wines. 

Berry cobblers, pralines, cheesecake, apple pie or seasonal tarts are also delicious served with wine. 

Dinner

If you're bringing dinner along with a bottle of wine, think about the meal first. The right wine selection will follow. 

A hearty steak dinner pairs well with many full-bodied red wines. Seafood fits with crisp white wines. And with so many different sauces to choose from, pasta is flexible.

Barbecue is another fun option because there's room to customize. Smoky brisket, ribs, smoked chicken or vegetable skewers can all work with different wines.

Gifts for wine lovers who enjoy learning

Some wine lovers are just as interested in discovering something new as they are in sipping on aged grapes. If your recipient likes comparing varietals, memorizing unique bottles or learning about winemaking, they might get a kick out of an educational gift. 

Wine journals

A wine journal is a simple way to keep track of tasting notes without relying on memory. The wine taster can jot down the producer, vintage, grape variety and anything they noticed about the wine, making it easier to remember favorites or avoid bottles that didn't quite hit the mark.

Many journals also include space to record food pairings, where the bottle came from or who they shared it with. Over time, it becomes a personalized reference they can look back on when shopping for their next bottle or planning a dinner party.

Wine books and guides

Wine books make great gifts because there's something for every experience level. Beginners may appreciate approachable guides that explain common grape varieties, wine history, regional grape maps, wine production, wine terminology and tasting basics.

Coffee-table books featuring vineyard photography or beautifully illustrated maps are great conversation starters that hosts can put on display. 

Wine tasting experiences and kits

An at-home tasting kit encourages exploration without requiring a trip to a vineyard. Pair a few different varietals with complementary snacks, tasting glasses or an aroma kit to create an experience they can enjoy with friends or family. It's a fun way to compare wines side by side and discover new favorites.

If you're looking beyond physical gifts, a wine tasting, local class or wine club membership can be a memorable option. These experiences give recipients the chance to keep learning while trying bottles they might not have picked out on their own.

Wine gifts for special occasions

The occasion can help narrow down the right gift just as much as the recipient's taste in wine. For instance, a warm spiced wine might feel perfect for a Christmas gathering, whereas a celebratory bottle of bubbly might be a more natural fit for a college graduation. 

Housewarming wine gifts

Housewarming gifts are a great opportunity to choose items that will see plenty of use in a new home. Serving trays, wine cocktail recipe books, stemless wine glasses and appetizer plates all set your recipient up for years of successful hosting.

Wine chillers, ice buckets and a quality set of cheese knives are also practical additions that many people don't think to buy themselves right away. 

You can also send a bottle that fits casual entertaining, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or an easy-drinking Pinot Noir, to celebrate them settling into a new home.

Engagement, wedding and anniversary wine gifts

Relationship milestones call for gifts that feel celebratory and lasting. Sparkling wines like Champagne or Prosecco are classic choices for toasts, while a meaningful red or white wine can mark a special dinner or anniversary celebration.

Promotion and milestone celebration wine gifts

A new degree, promotion, retirement or other career milestone is a good excuse to step up the gift a bit. A celebratory bottle of sparkling wine, a bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon or a curated wine gift basket can make the occasion feel special without being overly formal.

Birthdays

Birthday gifts are some of the easiest to personalize based on the recipient's habits. Someone who enjoys quiet evenings at home might appreciate receiving their favorite bottle paired with gourmet snacks or dessert, while a frequent host may get more use from upgraded glassware or entertaining accessories.

You can also build a themed gift basket with wine, crackers, artisan cheese, chocolates or a new wine book. Mixing a few smaller items often feels more personal than giving a single gift on its own.

Alternatively, you can bring a bubbly Champagne or a dessert wine for a fun and festive twist. 

Christmas and holidays

Seasonal wine favorites like mulled wine, sparkling wine or a rich red blend can add a festive touch, especially when paired with seasonal treats like chocolates and cookies. 

For a larger holiday gift, consider combining a bottle with practical accessories like a wine chiller, serving board or quality opener. Choosing items they'll continue using throughout the year helps the gift feel useful long after the decorations come down. 

Affordable wine gifts under $25

You don't have to spend much to put together a wine gift. Smaller accessories and gourmet snacks can make a bottle feel more personal, especially when you choose items that match how the recipient enjoys wine. These gifts also mix and match easily, so you can build a custom gift without stretching your budget.

Small upgrades they'll use every week

Simple accessories often make the biggest difference because they become part of someone's routine. A waiter-style corkscrew, reusable wine stopper or insulated wine tumbler all fit comfortably under $25 and are likely to see regular use. If you're putting together a gift bag, consider adding a set of reusable wine glass markers or a drip ring to round things out.

Build-your-own wine night

Pairing a bottle with a few shareable snacks makes for a more complete gift. Crackers, artisan cheese, olives, roasted nuts or a quality chocolate bar are easy additions that can be enjoyed the same day. You can also package everything in a reusable wine bag for a presentation that's simple but satisfying.

Thoughtful finishing touches

If your recipient already has the basics, look for inexpensive extras they may not have picked up themselves. A wine journal gives them a place to keep track of favorite bottles, while a decorative tea towel or a set of cocktail napkins adds a little personality to their entertaining setup. These smaller gifts also work well as stocking stuffers or hostess gifts.

Luxury wine gifts over $25

If you're celebrating a milestone or shopping for someone who already has the basics covered, consider investing in a gift they'll enjoy for years. Higher-end accessories often combine everyday function with elegant design, making them just as nice to display as they are to use.

Elevated serving pieces

Premium glassware, a handcrafted decanter or a well-designed wine chiller can instantly elevate a dinner table or home bar. These gifts work especially well for people who entertain often, since they're likely to bring them out for everything from casual dinners to holiday celebrations.

Gifts for collectors and enthusiasts

Wine lovers who enjoy exploring different bottles may appreciate tools that help them get more out of the experience. A wine preservation system lets them enjoy a bottle over multiple evenings, while an aroma kit can help them practice identifying common scents in different varietals. 

Decorative wine storage pieces can also make a nice gift for someone who likes displaying a small collection at home.

Curated wine experiences at home

Instead of choosing a single bottle, put together a tasting experience they can enjoy at home. Select a few different varietals, add gourmet crackers, specialty chocolates or other tasting snacks, then include a tasting journal so they can compare each bottle.

Unique gifts for wine lovers who have everything

Shopping for someone who already has plenty of wine accessories calls for a different approach. Instead of replacing the basics, look for gifts that add a new experience, encourage exploration or complement the collection they've already built. 

The most memorable options often help them enjoy wine in a different way, rather than simply giving them another bottle.

Make every bottle more memorable

For wine lovers who enjoy reflecting on what they taste, a journal with prompts helps them keep track of favorite producers, compare vintages or record bottles they've shared during special occasions. 

An aroma kit is another gift that encourages curiosity. It introduces common scents found in different varietals and can turn an ordinary tasting into a fun challenge, whether they're learning on their own or hosting friends for a wine night.

Turn tasting into a game

Blind-tasting accessories offer a fresh experience for someone who's already familiar with wine. Reusable bottle covers, tasting scorecards or tasting mats let guests focus on what's in the glass instead of the label, making dinner parties and casual tastings a little more interactive.

You can also build your own tasting collection by choosing a few wines made from the same grape in different regions or selecting several varietals to compare side by side. Add a few tasting snacks, and you've created an experience that's as enjoyable as the gift itself.

Upgrade what they already own

When someone has the essentials covered, look for refinements instead of replacements. A specialized wine preservation system can be a worthwhile upgrade for someone who enjoys opening several bottles throughout the week. Alternatively, personalized wine storage, such as a custom wine crate or engraved bottle holder, adds a decorative touch they'll enjoy displaying.

Another thoughtful option is to assemble a food-pairing collection around a favorite wine style. Gourmet crackers, specialty nuts, artisan chocolate, preserves or other pantry items let them experiment with different flavor combinations and create their own tasting board.

How to choose the best wine to gift

Choose the best wine to gift by considering the occasion, the wine’s body, the recipient’s flavor preferences, and what food they plan to serve with it. If you know what they usually drink, start there. If you don't, choose a crowd-friendly style that matches the moment rather than trying to guess their exact favorite.

Wine preferences are personal, so there are no rules that apply to every drinker. Here are some common styles that can help you make a choice:

Consider the occasion

• Celebrations: Sparkling wines like Champagne, Prosecco or Cava are often associated with milestones and special moments.

• Casual get-togethers: Easy-drinking reds like Pinot Noir, lighter whites like Sauvignon Blanc or a versatile rosé can work well for relaxed gatherings.

• Holidays: Choose a wine that complements the meal or feels festive, such as a rich red for a winter dinner or sparkling wine for a toast.

Think about flavor preferences

• Fruity: Look for wines with noticeable fruit flavors, such as Moscato, Riesling, Pinot Noir or many rosé styles.

• Earthy: Consider reds like Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon or wines from regions known for more savory flavor profiles.

• Spiced or bold: Fuller reds like Syrah or Zinfandel appeal to people who enjoy richer, more intense flavors.

Choose based on body

• Light-bodied: Crisp whites, rosé and lighter reds like Pinot Noir are often refreshing and easy to drink.

• Medium-bodied: Merlot, Chardonnay and many red blends offer a balance of fruit, acidity and richness.

• Full-bodied: Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Syrah are often a good fit for people who prefer bold flavors.

Match the wine to the meal

• Pasta: Choose based on the sauce. Tomato-based pastas often pair well with medium-bodied reds, while creamy sauces go with richer white wines.

• Steak: Fuller-bodied reds like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec often complement hearty, savory dishes.

• Seafood: Crisp whites like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay are popular choices for lighter seafood meals.

• Sweets: Dessert wines, Moscato or sparkling wines complement desserts, depending on how sweet the dish is.

• Picnic: Rosé, sparkling wine and easy-drinking whites are practical options for outdoor meals and casual snacks.

If you're unsure what they'll like, a versatile bottle paired with a small gift, such as chocolate, cheese, crackers or a handwritten card, is a solid choice.

How to choose accessories and pairings for a wine lover

The right wine gift depends less on what looks impressive and more on how the recipient actually enjoys wine. Think about their habits first, then choose accessories, snacks or serving pieces that fit the way they drink, host and explore.

• Casual drinkers: Focus on items that make enjoying wine at home easier. A reliable corkscrew, reusable stopper, insulated tumbler or a few favorite snacks can be more useful than a specialty tool they'll rarely use.

• Hosts and entertainers: Choose pieces that help them serve guests, such as a wine glass set, serving tray, cheese board, ice bucket or wine tote. Look for items that work for both everyday dinners and larger gatherings.

• Wine enthusiasts: Consider gifts that encourage discovery, like a wine journal, tasting accessories, aroma kit or books about regions and varietals. These options are a good fit for someone who enjoys learning more about the bottles they try.

• When you're unsure: Stick with versatile gifts that fit most wine lovers. Universal wine glasses, a well-made serving board, gourmet crackers, chocolate or a thoughtfully selected bottle are easy to personalize without needing to know their exact preferences.

FAQs 

Can you order wine online?

Yes, you can order wine online through retailers that offer alcohol delivery, though availability depends on your location and local regulations. Customers and recipients must meet applicable age requirements and provide a valid photo ID at delivery.

What’s a good gift for a wine lover?

A good gift for a wine lover is one that matches how they enjoy wine, such as a quality opener for casual drinkers, serving pieces for hosts or tasting tools for someone who likes learning about wine.

What do you buy a wine lover who has everything?

For a wine lover who has everything, consider a gift that adds a new experience, such as a tasting journal, aroma kit, food-pairing collection or specialized preservation tool.

What are some affordable gifts for wine lovers?

Affordable gifts for wine lovers include practical accessories like wine stoppers and corkscrews or easy-to-enjoy pairings like chocolate and crackers.

What food can I bring to go with wine? 

Good foods to bring with wine include cheese, crackers, cured meats, fruit, chocolate and other snacks that match the recipient's preferences. For a larger meal, choose pairings based on the main dish, such as pasta, steak or seafood.

Order a gift for the wine lover in your life through Instacart

Instacart makes it a breeze to send a gift of wine, or even snacks and accessories, so you can show the wine lover in your life some love. 

Pick items that match the occasion, choose to make the delivery a gift and add a personal message. And voilà, you've got a gift that's ready to enjoy.