The ultimate guide to buying a case of wine

Thinking about buying a case of wine? It’s a smart move for several reasons. You’ll usually pay less per bottle when buying in bulk, saving you money. Plus, you can stock up on wines you love or try new ones without frequent trips to the store.

Having a variety of wines at home is handy, so you’re prepared for any occasion, whether it’s a cosy night in or a special celebration.

Read on to find out everything you need to know about buying cases of wine.

Expert advice on choosing a case of wine

Try these tips from our wine experts:

1. Consider your wine needs

Before buying a case of wine, ask yourself:

• How much wine do you drink each week or month?

• Do you prefer red, white, or rosé?

• Are there specific grape types or regions you enjoy?

• Do you have any upcoming events where you’ll need extra wine?

If you love hosting or having friends over for dinner, a case of wine ensures the perfect pairing every time. If you love a particular type of food, look for wines that pair well with it. For example, if you enjoy trying different recipes, consider versatile wines like Riesling or Pinot Noir.

Planning for celebrations, such as birthdays and anniversaries? Include a few standout bottles for these special occasions.

You might also want to think about gifting. Having wine on hand also makes for easy last-minute gifts.

Explore our mixed red, mixed white and mixed rosé wine cases.

2. Consider the season

The time of year can shape your wine choices, impacting what you might enjoy and what’s available.

In warm weather, light and refreshing wines like Pinot Grigio or crisp rosés are welcome at summer barbecues.

When it gets colder, you might prefer richer, full-bodied reds such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz or a robust Malbec, which pair wonderfully with hearty dishes and cosy evenings by the fire.

Choosing wines that match the season helps you find the right pairings for seasonal foods and fits your mood throughout the year.

3. Keep an open mind

You may already know your favourites, but there are many different wines to try, each with unique flavours and aromas. By being open to new experiences, you might discover grape types and regions you never knew you’d love.

Buying a mixed case is a great way to explore beyond your usual choices without committing to a full case of one type. Your next favourite wine might come from somewhere unexpected – perhaps a region you’ve never heard of or a grape you’ve never tried.

Taking a more adventurous approach can improve your wine collection and help you appreciate wines from all over the world.

4. Brush up on your wine jargon

Understanding wine terms can make buying wine easier by helping you decode labels and descriptions.

For example, here are a few common terms – knowing these and more can guide you to wines that match your preferences and help you choose wines to suit your tastes.

• Acidity – Refers to the tartness in wine that adds freshness and balance.

• Tannins – Compounds that add bitterness and structure, primarily found in red wines.

• Body – Describes how “heavy” the wine feels in your mouth, ranging from light to full-bodied.

• Finish – The taste that stays in your mouth after you swallow, showing complexity.

• Dry and off-dry – ‘Dry’ wines have almost no sweetness, while ‘off-dry’ wines have a hint of sweetness.

• Oak-Aged – Wine aged in oak barrels, adding flavours like vanilla or spice.

Discover more with the wine knowledge section of our blog.

5. Think about delivery

Before ordering a case, consider when you’ll need your wine. Planning is key, especially when buying wine for a party or a specific event.

Ordering early gives you plenty of time for delivery and helps you avoid paying extra for rush shipping. While many wine retailers offer fast delivery options, it’s always smart to check how long shipping will take and order with enough time to spare.