10 most common mistakes when buying wine as a gift

When buying wine as a gift, many people make the error to choose a bottle based on the label or packaging. While it's important to choose a wine that your intended recipient will like, don't base your decision solely on visual cues.

Instead, take the time to read about different types of wines and what makes each one unique. This way you can choose a gift that is both thoughtful and delicious. Another common error that people make when buying wine is to assume that all expensive wines are of good quality. This is not always the case, and you can often find excellent wines at more affordable prices.

Do your research before making a purchase, and don't be afraid to ask for help before buying a wine as a gift. So here are some tips to help you make a better choice when buying wine as a gift.

1. Don't research before buying wine as a gift

One of the biggest faults that people make when buying wine is that they don't do their research beforehand. There are tons of great resources to help you make informed choices, including websites, blogs, and vintage guides. If you find yourself feeling lost, take a moment to familiarize yourself with your options before hitting the store. That way, you're more likely to find a wine you like.

When choosing a bottle of wine as a gift, it is important to consider the occasion. A special occasion such as a birthday or anniversary calls for a nicer bottle than an informal get-together. Think about what kind of event the recipient will use the wine for and choose accordingly.

In short, when buying wine as a gift, it is important to do your research beforehand. Find out what the recipient likes to drink and their favorite wine brands. This will help you narrow down your choices and ensure you're giving them a bottle they'll enjoy.

2. Buy wine as a gift just because of the brand name

When it comes to wine, beware of brand bias. Sure, those household names are tempting. But you do pay a premium for it. Instead, look for something unique from a region with a similar climate. So is Cabernet Sauvignon from Slavonia or the Croatian Danube region a great alternative to Bordeaux. Or try blends from Plavac Mali en Merlot from Croatia – a great new take on the classic wines.

3. Avoid wine advice

When it comes to buying wine, many people make the error to avoid advice. They think asking for help from a shop assistant means defeat, when in reality it's a smart move. Shop assistants are usually highly educated and have tasted the full range of wines. This allows them to provide you with the best possible service and tailor their knowledge to your wishes. Yes, they want to sell something, but they will value your satisfaction much more than how much you spend. By asking for advice, you can be sure to find the perfect wine for your needs.

4. Choosing a wine as a gift based on its appearance

When choosing a wine, it is important not to base your decision on the appearance of the label. A luxury label does not guarantee that the wine is of high quality. Instead, you should read the fine print, as this will give you more information about what to expect from the wine. The winemaker is the person who makes a great product, not the designer of the label.

5. Don't make it personal

If you want to go the extra mile, buy the same wine that was served at their wedding or an important anniversary. Not everyone is a wine connoisseur, so don't try to impress them with an expensive bottle. Stick to what you know they like or what you think they like based on their taste in other drinks.

The key to finding the perfect bottle of wine as a gift is to make it personal. Think about the person you are buying for and try to find a wine that suits them. This could be a wine from their favorite vacation spot, or a place they've always wanted to go to. You could even include a card explaining why you chose that particular wine. If you want to go the extra mile, have the same wine that was served at their wedding or important anniversary.

Remember that not everyone is a wine expert, so don't try to impress them with an expensive bottle. Stick to what you know they like or what you think they like based on their taste in other drinks. With a little thought and effort, you can find the perfect bottle of wine to give as a gift.

6. Looking for special offers

If you're looking for a good wine deal, don't be distracted by bright bargain signs or discount labels. Instead, take the time to scour the shelves and find the perfect bottle at the right price. You might be amazed at what you can find if you take the time to look around! Who knows, you might find your new favorite wine that you can give as a gift to someone.

7. Buy wine based on price only

Read the label on the back, talk to your retailer and do your research to make an informed decision. When buying wine, watch how much you spend. The most expensive bottle on the shelf may not be the best wine. Production processes, bottling materials, taxes and demand all affect the cost of wine, so price doesn't always correlate with quality. You may be able to find a better quality wine for a lower price if you pay attention to the back label, talk to your retailer, and do your research.

Just because you're buying wine as a gift doesn't mean you have to cut corners on quality. A cheap bottle of wine is likely to disappoint and leave a bad impression. Better to spend a little more money on a nicer bottle that the recipient will appreciate. It is better to avoid bottles that cost less than 5 euros. Wines that cost between 5 and 15 euros per bottle are of good quality for the price and you can safely give as a gift.

8. The combination of eten and forget wine

One of the most common faults that people make when buying wine is forgetting the combination of eten and wine. Different wines go with different dishes depending on their unique flavors. When gifting a bottle of wine, consider choosing something that goes well with the recipient's favorite meal. Or you can opt for a classic combination like Pinot Grigio en cheese or biscotti with a Riesling.

9. Being Blinded by Options

There are some faults that you can make when buying wine. One of them is blinded by too many options. When faced with a large selection of wines, it can be overwhelming and may not make you the best choice. Another error is that you don't do your research in advance. Knowing what type of wine you want can help you narrow down your choices and make a better decision. Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help. If you're not sure what to choose, ask a salesperson if sommelier for their opinion. With a little knowledge and guidance, you can select the perfect wine for any occasion.

10. Croatian wine don't want to buy

When it comes to buying wine as a gift, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, don't buy the cheapest bottle of wine you can find. It is important to remember that quality counts when it comes to wine. Second, take the time to learn about the different types of wine so you can make an informed decision.

And finally, don't forget to add a personal message to your gift. By following these simple tips, you can be sure that your wine-loving boyfriend or girlfriend will be delighted with his or her new Croatian wine.