Resist the trap of overspending with our ultimate guide to gifting etiquette.
When giving gifts, especially of the liquid persuasion, the price tag can feel like a minefield. How much is too much? How little is too little? What can you get away with when showing up to a dinner party or trying to impress someone’s parents? And once you've landed on a sum, you've still got to work out which bottle of alcohol actually makes for the best gift.
Luckily, we’ve broken it all down so you don’t have to. Consider this your guide to gifting without looking like you grabbed something on special as you headed out the door (which is absolutely what we do).
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Under $25: The social duty
Let’s face it: If you’re spending less than $25, there’s a high chance this is for a ‘social duty’ gift. You’re a plus-one at a dinner party, returning a small favour, or it’s something work-related. This is the realm of “I didn’t forget, but I didn’t break the bank either.”
At this price point, balance the budget with a bit of flair. Something like Principi di Butera Amira Nero d’Avola – a classic Italian red – can serve as both a delicious drink and a way to spark conversation about your “love of Sicily” (even if the closest you’ve been is that one pasta place down the road).
If you want to go a bit quirkier, Wrexham Lager not only tastes great but also comes with a backstory featuring Ryan Reynolds’ very own football team. And for something with a global twist, Kizakura Yamahai saké offers that “I put thought into this” vibe that’s perfect for people you may or may not ever see again.
$25 to $50: Show you care
Now we’re talking. When you’re spending $25 to $50, this is for someone you actually like or are trying to impress. It could be a gift for a dinner party host (where you’re not just a plus-one), or perhaps a thank-you to someone who’s done you a good turn. You might even be meeting the parents – if that’s the case, you want to bring your A-game without overdoing it.
Consider bringing a bottle of Luxardo Limoncello, the sweet, zesty and so-hot-right-now Italian liqueur that feels special but doesn’t scream “I’m trying too hard”. If you’re aiming for sophistication, go for a bold Aussie red that strikes just the right note of thoughtful yet relaxed. We like Barossa’s Torbreck The Steading Grenache Shiraz Mataro. And for those who appreciate quality cocktails without the fuss, Mr Consistent Margarita Mix is an excellent just-add-tequila affair to let them know you cared, but not too much.
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$50 to $75: Significant occasions
We’re officially into the big leagues now. When dropping $50 to $75, it’s for someone special – your best mate’s birthday, a housewarming for close friends, or celebrating a big promotion. These gifts are meant to stand out, but you don’t need to go overboard.
A bottle of Joseph Perrier Cuvée Royale Champagne Brut is a sure-fire way to celebrate in style without overshooting the mark. After all, nothing says celebration quite like popping a cork. For the aesthete in your life, Roku Japanese Craft Gin will earn you points for taste and presentation with its beautiful bottle and intricate flavours. And if you’re catering to a proper wine snob, Jean-Marc Brocard Chablis Premier Cru Vaillons is the perfect nod to French elegance, offering a taste of Chablis that says, “I get you.”
$75 and up: The big moments
We’ve reached the serious gifting zone – milestone birthdays, weddings, graduations. These are the moments when you need a gift that will be remembered long after it’s consumed. You’re making a statement here: “This is a big deal, and so are you.”
Vintage Champagne is an instant win if you’re going all out. Swapping the ubiquity of the big brands for a lesser-known, family-owned house will yield great returns. You’ll save a few bucks and give them something unique to celebrate with. Philipponnat Champagne Blanc de Noirs Extra-Brut Vintage is bang on the money.
Bordeaux’s flagship drops can run in the thousands, but there’s great value and prestige to be found in the ‘second wines’ of the region’s top producers. Château Haut-Bailly II 2019 offers serious pedigree and cellar potential, perfect for someone who knows their vintages and will appreciate the long game. And for whisky fans, the award-winning Starward Nova Single Malt Australian Whisky delivers craftsmanship and rich flavour, which is ideal for those who appreciate a dram with a story behind it.
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