The 25 Best Wines to Gift—And They're All Under $25

Everyone loves getting a nice bottle of vino, and luckily, the right wine gift doesn't have to cost a fortune. There are plenty of brands and blends that don't have a triple-digit price that still make great presents for those on your nice list this year.

Plus, your recipient will want to cheers to good health and a sharper brain. Research published in the journal Scientific Reports found that light alcohol consumption is a potent way to prolong brain sharpness, so a nice vino makes a really smart gift this holiday season, too.

Keep reading for our best budget-friendly wine gifts to please your pals, family, and co-workers.

Note: Prices may vary based on your state of residence.

The Unexpected

$12.99, SHOP IT HERE

South Africa's most widely planted grape shines in this medium-bodied white with notes of tropical fruit, honey, and pear.

$18, SHOP IT HERE

At nearly 20 percent alcohol, this Portuguese dark, fruity, fortified wine is ideal for sipping at an unhurried pace alongside a cheese plate for dessert.

$21.99, SHOP IT HERE

This just-sweet-enough Amontillado sherry, a Spanish dessert wine, is made for enjoying with nutty pies and cakes, because it gives a nod to almonds and cream.

$13, SHOP IT HERE

A unique mix of viognier, sauvignon blanc, malvasia bianca, riesling, grenache blanc, and chenin blanc star in this tropical-flavored and sturdy white wine (read: can stand up to spicy food!) from California.

$13, SHOP IT HERE

At 14 ½ percent alcohol and with plenty of spice and herbal flavors, this Spanish red will make a big impact with just one glass.

The Eye-catching

$13, SHOP IT HERE

Artistic folks will appreciate the hand-drawn sketch on the label of this lemony and light Portuguese white blend.

$13.97, SHOP IT HERE

No need for a bow when this Italian sparkler already comes with a showy orange sash. The apple notes make this white wine refreshing on its own or with anything from savory snacks, like salted nuts, to sweet desserts, such as cheesecake.

$9.99 (price may vary by location), Whole Foods Stores

Why gift roses when you can share a bottle of wine with beautiful blooms on the label? While this Argentinian red looks flowery, it has enough tannins (a pleasant astringent quality that comes from grape seeds, stems, and skins) and jammy flavors to hold its own next to a steak or beef roast.

$15, SHOP IT HERE

True, the watermelons and tropical flowers on this bottle are trendy, but they're also cleverly placed tasting notes. Those are the exact elements that take center stage in this bright California rosé.

$14.99, SHOP IT HERE

The metallic geometric design that dresses up the label for this slightly tart, strawberry-forward Oregon rosé makes a gift bag completely unnecessary.

The Splurges

$19.99, SHOP IT HERE

Aged in a mix of American and French barrels, this elegant California-produced cab is sleeker and less oaky than most of its relatives.

$24.99 (price may vary by location), Trader Joe's stores

Rich in cherry flavor and in alcohol, this Italian red is made for savoring (rather than slurping down quickly). Suggest the recipient pair it with blue cheese to cap off a holiday meal.

$23.95, SHOP IT HERE

Share this slightly savory, plum-flavored French red with your pal who loves to live boldly. Its strong body will match her personality.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

$17.99, SHOP IT HERE

Your coffee-loving co-worker will get a kick out of this rich California Merlot-based red blend that tastes like espresso, vanilla, and spice.

$19.98, SHOP IT HERE

The fruity qualities (including cranberry and black cherry) of this California red make it a pleasant counterpoint to savory entrees made with mushrooms and beef.

The Total Steals

$4.75 (price may vary by location), Trader Joe's stores

Slightly effervescent and refreshingly crisp, this low-alcohol Portuguese white is a winning weeknight wine.

$6.99 per 12-ounce can, Whole Foods stores

This can can hold its own against bottled sparkling wines. The glowing golden hue and crisp citrus flavors make this affordable option a savvy stocking stuffer.

$6.99 (price may vary by location), Trader Joe's stores

With a dash of spice and plenty of red cherry, this Spanish red tastes twice as expensive as its TJ's retail price. Its body disguises the 14 ½ percent alcohol, so offer this one up with a "pace yourself!" warning.

$11.99 (price may vary by location), Trader Joe's stores

This easy-drinking chardonnay has a caramel finish that makes it a lovely everyday sparkling wine or an easy mixer with OJ.

$12.99 (price may vary by location), Trader Joe's stores

With zinfandel, syrah, merlot, petite sirah, barbera, grenache, and petit verdot all in the mix (whew!) there's something for everyone in this full-bodied California red blend.

The Crowd-Pleasers

$12.99 (price may vary by location), Trader Joe's stores

Ruby in color and floral in flavor, this California red wine is a suitable partner to burgers or meat-topped pizzas.

$18.99 (price may vary by location), Whole Foods Stores

Fast-forward to spring with this crisp French rosé with the tang of underripe strawberries. It brightens up salad and other light fare.

$18, SHOP IT HERE

Ripe berries, cocoa, and warm baking spices team up in a bold California cabernet. Red meat has officially met its match.

$8.99, SHOP IT HERE

Buttery chardonnays can be a bit overbearing for seafood and other diet-friendly fare, but not this fruity Chilean version. It's aged in steel instead of oak for a lighter finish.

$9.99, SHOP IT HERE

Smooth and cozy, this rich French red has enough acidity to stand up to savory suppers—but is easy-drinking enough to enjoy on its own. (Next to a bonfire or the fireplace, naturally.)