Gifting a wine club is like picking the perfect surf break: match the vibe, the skill level, and the timing, and you’re golden. David Watsky’s guide for CNET on the best wine clubs and subscriptions in 2026 covers a lot of ground—and bottles. Below, I’ll help you pair each club with the right recipient so your gift lands like a well-timed pour.
Firstleaf: For the drinker who’s moved beyond everyday labels and is ready to explore. Firstleaf’s palate quiz doesn’t treat you like a newbie—it digs into varietal preferences and tasting notes (even minerality) to tailor your box. Plans range from $90 to $150 for six bottles, with flexible frequency. As Watsky notes, Most customers pick an ‘every other month’ schedule
(CNET, David Watsky). If your giftee can talk structure and finish without sounding pretentious, this is your pick.
Wine Insiders: Ideal for the practical friend who wants a great deal without the commitment. Think à la carte bottles under $20, free shipping on six, and an optional club (12 wines every 12 weeks for $89) that’s easy to gift without overcomplicating things. Simple, budget-friendly, and surprisingly versatile.
Cellars Wine Club: Eight sub-clubs curated by sommeliers—90+ point wines, sparkling, sweet, and more. This is the “try everything” club for the taster who likes changing lanes. Two or more bottles per month, themed, and easy to switch between. It’s like a tasting tour without the TSA line.
Plonk Wine Club: For your eco-conscious pal who reads the back label like a novel. Plonk highlights organic and biodynamic wines from around the world. Yes, it’s pricier ($135 for four bottles), but you’re paying for farming integrity and a cleaner cellar. As Watsky puts it, Organic grapes are a great place to start
(CNET, David Watsky). Choose red, white, or mixed, and feel good about the footprint.
SomMailer: The Francophile’s dream. Every bottle is French, selected by folks who live and work in the regions. Quarterly shipments (three, six, or 12 bottles) include thoughtful pairings and deep-dive notes—basically a sommelier in a box. If your giftee swoons over Chablis with oysters or a rustic Rhône with duck confit, this one’s a slam dunk.
90+ Cellars: For people who aren’t married to wine but still want quality on hand. Rebranded bottles from respected producers show up every quarter—three, six, or 12 at approachable prices. It’s low effort, high return, and a great way to keep a ready stash for dinner parties or weeknight wins.
Roscioli Italian Wine Club: The heirloom tomato of wine clubs: intensely flavorful and not cheap. Two annual shipments of 12 bottles—biodiversity and biodynamics front and center—with tiers from Essential ($860) to Collector ($2,160). You also get pairing suggestions, QR-code videos, and access to their community. Bonus perk: a complimentary tasting in Rome for members. If your recipient dreams in Nebbiolo and Brunello, this is the big swing.
Vinebox: The most giftable format of the bunch—six 100ml vials that split the difference between a tasting pour and a proper glass. As Watsky writes, The cool and very giftable twist-top vials
(CNET, David Watsky) let you explore high-end wines without committing to full bottles. It’s perfect for the curious sipper or anyone who loves a neat presentation.
- Serious learner leveling up: Firstleaf
- Deal hunter and casual drinker: Wine Insiders
- Curious explorer: Cellars Wine Club
- Eco-minded minimalist: Plonk
- Francophile foodie: SomMailer
- Host-with-the-most: 90+ Cellars
- Collector with a passport: Roscioli
- Gift that’s guaranteed to delight: Vinebox
Bottom line: pick the club that fits the person, not just the price. If you match cadence, curation, and character, your 2026 gift will pour like sunshine on a winter afternoon—bright, warm, and highly sippable.
Original article by David Watsky on CNET.
