10 Best Premium Wine Clubs 2023: Top Choices!

The abundance of wine clubs can be overwhelming. Choosing a service that matches your desired convenience level, whether for gifting or personal indulgence, and aligns with your wine knowledge is really important. 

I thoroughly reviewed dozens of companies to find the best premium wine clubs. I considered wine quality, personalization options, membership benefits, and delivery reliability. From my extensive research, I’ve managed to shortlist the 10 best premium wine clubs for 2023. 

I highly recommend Firstleaf as the top wine club. Firstleaf's wines are tailored to match with your palate, ensuring your selection is perpetually refined. By diving into this list, you'll be able to pinpoint a wine delivery service tailored to your unique preferences.

The Best Premium Wine Clubs Reviewed

1. Firstleaf – Best Overall Premium Wine Club

Firstleaf is my top choice among premium wine clubs. For wine enthusiasts looking to explore a range of curated selections, Firstleaf stands out for its commitment to quality and personalization. 

World-class wines are delivered straight to your door. In a market flooded with options, it distinguishes itself by ensuring every bottle you receive is of exceptional standard. Through its partnerships with renowned vineyards, Firstleaf ensures the wines you get are both exquisite and exclusive.

Its unique algorithm determines wines that match your palate. By answering a few questions about your taste preferences, the club zeroes in on wines you're bound to love. It means each shipment is crafted especially for you.

There are 3 different wine clubs to choose from. These are called Classic, Preferred, or Premier, and you’ll get award-winning wines with flexible delivery intervals. This flexibility ensures you always have the right amount of wine on hand, whether for personal enjoyment or hosting events.

An upgrade option lets you experience fine wines. With this choice, you'll receive more complex wines, perfect for those special occasions or gifting. It’s an opportunity to elevate your wine game and appreciate the finer nuances of premium selections.

It offers both a la carte buying and club memberships. The distinct advantage of joining the club is the substantial savings. On average, wine club members enjoy a remarkable 60% discount on bottles, making premium wine indulgence an affordable luxury. In fact, my colleague was impressed with its globally diverse wine selection.

There's a 100% satisfaction guarantee in place. If any wine doesn't meet your expectations, you will get credit to your account that you can spend in its wine shop. This commitment to customer satisfaction highlights Firstleaf's confidence in the quality it delivers.

Starting prices are at $7.49 with free shipping for 12 bottles. To further enhance the user experience, Firstleaf also has an intuitive app. This makes tracking your orders, exploring new wines, and managing your subscription a breeze.

2. Naked Wines – Best for Unique Independent Vineyards

Naked Wines stands out with its direct-to-consumer model. While many wine clubs source from larger, commercial wineries, it places its focus on independent winemakers. This unique approach gives you direct access to distinctive, high-caliber wines that you might not have discovered in conventional stores.

I like that each bottle tells the winemaker's story. Our reviewer liked that you can chat directly with the winemakers. With Naked Wines, every bottle comes narrated with the journey of its creation. Understanding the passion and craftsmanship behind your wine adds depth and appreciation to your wine-tasting sessions.

It operates on a distinct crowd-funded approach. Unlike typical wine clubs, Naked Wines adopts the "Angel" model. Members, known as Angels, fund the winemakers in advance. This not only ensures talented winemakers have the resources to produce exceptional wines but also means Angels receive top-tier wines at more accessible prices.

A diverse selection of wines awaits you. With its broad network of winemakers, it ensures a range that caters to varied wine preferences. Whether you lean toward robust reds, delicate whites, refreshing rosés, or bubbly sparkling wines, Naked Wines has a meticulously curated bottle to delight your palate.

Naked Wines champions flexible memberships. While the Angel investment model is its signature, the membership is tailored for convenience. You can choose wines as your heart desires without the constraints of a stringent monthly commitment, catering perfectly to those who crave both premium wines and adaptability.

Feedback and community connections are really important. Naked Wines fosters a thriving community. As a member, you can provide feedback, grade wines, and even engage directly with the artisans behind the bottles. Our reviewer 

Despite showcasing a range of premium wines, members get great value. Its direct funding approach ensures that you can indulge in wines of remarkable quality without the hefty price tag commonly associated with such exclusivity. Prices start at $7.99.

3. Vinesse – Best Curated International Selections 

Vinesse sources its wines from top vineyards globally. It emphasizes quality and originality, ensuring you get a taste of wines that have been carefully handpicked for their uniqueness and excellence. 

It offers a range of wines for all kinds of palates. Whether you're a lover of classic flavors or you seek the thrill of something new, you’ll find something with Vinesse. This means every wine enthusiast, from the conventional to the adventurous, finds something to love. Check out our full review for what type of wines to expect from Vinesse.

Each wine comes with detailed tasting notes and pairing suggestions. I've always believed that understanding a wine enhances the drinking experience. With Vinesse, not only do you get a premium bottle, but you also get an insight into its character, origin, and ideal food companions.

One of its standout features is the variety of clubs on offer. Among Vinesse’s 14 wine clubs, the Elevant Society Wine Club stands out with its collection of ultra-premium bottles. If you're looking for an elevated wine experience, this club could be your perfect match.

Vinesse allows for significant customization in your orders. You're in control when it comes to the number of bottles you receive, the type of wine (be it red, white, or a mix), and even how frequently they land on your doorstep. This flexibility ensures that the subscription fits your wine-drinking habits.

Its selection is especially beneficial for those looking to expand their wine horizons. With Vinesse, you'll find wines that aren't typically available at your local wine store. It's an opportunity to branch out, try something new, and surprise your palate with unique flavors from around the world.

Unlike some other clubs, Vinesse doesn’t offer a personalization quiz. While Firstleaf tailors wine choices based on a quiz, Vinesse believes in the charm of exploration. It encourages members to dive into its curated selections, making discoveries along the way.

Prices at Vinesse start at $10.00, but always be mindful of the shipping costs. Before finalizing your order, make sure you check out any additional fees. This way, you're never taken by surprise and can fully enjoy the premium wines Vinesse delivers.

4. Bright Cellars – Best Palate Quiz for Beginners

I really appreciate Bright Cellars’ detailed taste personalization quiz. This quiz provides an analytical approach to understanding an individual's wine preferences. By taking this quiz, you can get a clearer idea of which wines might align with your palate.

Feedback is integral to the service. When you rate the wines you've tried, it adjusts its recommendations. Over time, the system aims to get closer to your taste preferences, making the selections more tailored. Our expert review has more on how Bright Cellars matches wines.

The primary focus is on red and white wines. While these are the main offerings, it also includes a few other drink choices, such as ready-mixed margaritas, in its shop for those wanting a bit of variety. I like this option if you are in the mood for something different.

There's a blog that provides plenty of informational content. This section serves as a resource for those wanting to deepen their wine knowledge, offering insights on food pairing and other related topics.

The S.I.P. Rewards is a membership benefit. As you engage more with the service, you earn points which can be utilized for certain benefits, including potential discounts on orders.

Wine selections change each month. This approach ensures a rotation of wines, offering a chance to experience different bottles and potentially discover new favorites. I like that this helps to push you out of your comfort zone and try something you wouldn’t normally choose.

Individual bottle selection isn't available, unlike with Vinesse. This setup is more about curated selections based on your preferences rather than a pick-and-choose model.

The price point starts at $10.00, with shipping considerations. For those ordering 6 bottles or more, the shipping fee is waived. It's important to evaluate the overall value based on both the wine quality and cost.

5. Wine Insiders – Best Value Premium Bottles

Wine Insiders sources wines from various global regions. The service is known for its emphasis on offering a diverse selection from around the world, which provides an opportunity to explore different tastes and regions.

Martha Stewart and Geoffrey Zakarian are among the personalities curating collections. The involvement of known figures brings a certain level of recognition to the collections. Check out our full review for more on what wines are available at Wine Insiders.

When you join the wine club, you receive 12 “super-premium” bottles every quarter. Regularity in delivery ensures a consistent supply, making it suitable for those who prefer structured shipments. Then it’s up to you whether you drink them or save for a special occasion.

Your initial wine club package contains additional items. New members receive 3 Bordeaux wines and a wine accessory with their first order. It’s an introductory feature I’ve not seen with many other wine clubs.

Each wine undergoes a stringent evaluation process. Wine Insiders takes quality seriously. Before a wine is listed, it faces rigorous tastings by a panel of experts. This meticulous selection process ensures that only wines meeting a certain standard are offered to members.

Wine Insiders places a strong emphasis on education. If you want to extend your wine knowledge, the service provides detailed tasting notes, insights about wine regions, and food pairing suggestions. 

Wine Insiders also lists non-traditional offerings in its catalog. Besides the standard wine bottles, there are options like ready-to-drink cocktails and canned wine available for those interested in variety. Several wines in the shop have ratings of 90 or above and are priced under $20. I found over 25 of these at the last count.

The Wine Insiders blog is comprehensive. The blog covers various topics, providing insights on wine regions, grape varieties, and general wine knowledge. It's a resource for those keen on understanding more about wines.

Prices for Wine Insiders start at $8.99. When ordering 6 bottles or more, shipping is free, aligning with the practices of some other wine services like Bright Cellars. It's important to be aware of all the details when considering overall costs.

6. The California Wine Club – Great for State-Specific Vintages

The California Wine Club excels in providing state-specific vintages of premium wine. Delving deeper into the world of Californian wines means discovering a range that reflects the diversity and rich history of this famed wine region. If you’re interested in premium wine clubs, understanding more about a region's wines can be very rewarding.

The Premier Series introduces artisan wines from across California. This club is designed for enthusiasts who want a broad sampling. You get to experience the breadth of Californian winemaking prowess, from its sun-kissed valleys to its coastal vineyards.

Every wine club delivery is complemented with the Uncorked magazine. The magazine offers insights into the wines you receive, giving you a deeper understanding and appreciation of what's in your glass. Our reviewer loved that Uncorked is great for newbies and wine aficionados.

While its heart is Californian, it also offers global selections. The International Series club, for instance, lets you explore wines from beyond California’s borders. It acknowledges that while California is a wine powerhouse, there's a world of wine out there waiting to be tasted.

Members can choose between 2 or 4 bottles in every delivery. Options include red, white, or a mix of both. This way, you have control over the quantity and variety you receive, making each shipment tailor-fit to your preferences.

It provides an opportunity for a VIP winery tour. If you're interested, all you need to do is call and get the details. This adds an experiential layer to your membership, allowing you to not just taste wines, but to witness where and how they're crafted.

Subscriptions come with flexibility in delivery schedules. Whether you prefer monthly, bi-monthly, or quarterly deliveries, it has you covered. And if you come across a wine that you can't get enough of, you can place a la carte orders of 6 or more bottles.

Prices start at $10.99, paired with a Love It guarantee. If ever you come across a bottle that doesn't meet your expectations, you’ll get a replacement, ensuring you always get a wine worth your while.

7. Wine Awesomeness – Best for Thematic Monthly Boxes

Every month, Wine Awesomeness sends themed boxes. These dive deep into specific topics like film noir or the perfect wines to pair with burgers. These carefully curated themes provide not only an array of wines but also make your wine-drinking occasions special and memorable.

There’s no personalization quiz with Wine Awesomeness. Instead, it aims to broaden your wine horizons by introducing you to new flavors and wine stories. Without the constraints of a quiz, you can discover wines you might not have picked yourself. If you prefer more personalization, I recommend Firstleaf instead.

It offers 3 membership tiers where you can receive 3, 6, or 12 bottles. This flexibility lets you select a plan that best fits your wine consumption habits, ensuring you always have a premium bottle on hand without overwhelming your wine rack.

You can decide to let Wine Awesomeness curate your selection or handpick wines yourself. This option offers a balance between discovery and personal preference, allowing you to explore new wines while still having a say in your monthly box.

Members get a 20% discount on any additional bottles you wish to buy from the shop. If you find a wine you particularly enjoy, you can easily stock up on it while enjoying a reduced price.

Each delivery is accompanied by The Back Label magazine. This is an informative guide that offers insights into the wines you’ve received and the theme of the month. Reading the magazine can heighten your appreciation of the wines, as you understand their background, origins, and why they relate to that month's theme.

Our reviewer appreciated that managing your membership is hassle-free. You can effortlessly update your preferences, change membership tiers, or edit personal details through your online account. This ensures that your experience with Wine Awesomeness remains tailored to your evolving tastes and needs.

Starting prices for this premium wine service start at $13.25. And if, for any reason, you come across a bottle that doesn’t meet your expectations, it ensures the wine is replaced in your subsequent delivery, underscoring its commitment to quality and member satisfaction.

8. Macy’s Wine Shop – Great Exclusive Member Deals

Macy's Wine Shop offers quality wine at affordable prices. Each bottle is curated to match the store’s commitment to quality. This means the service provides wines that are both budget-friendly and of exquisite taste.

Exclusive wines set this service apart. Unlike other retailers, it doesn’t just stock wines you can find on any Macy’s store shelves. Instead, it takes pride in offering wines that aren't available in store, making each delivery feel like a unique tasting experience.

Wine club members receive 6 bottles of expertly chosen wine every 12 weeks. You're assured a regular supply of diverse and intriguing wines. Whether your preference is red, white, or a mix of both, there's a tailored option to satisfy your palate.

There’s a wide range of expertise behind the selection. With experienced sommeliers and wine enthusiasts, each bottle in your delivery has been scrutinized for quality and taste. Its hands-on approach ensures that what arrives at your doorstep is nothing short of premium.

The Martha Stewart curated collections are a highlight. Just as Wine Insiders have benefited from the tasteful touch of Martha Stewart, so has Macy's Wine Shop. These collections bear the stamp of Martha's discerning palate, so you know you're in for a treat with every sip.

There's great value even in the higher-tier wines. It might surprise you, but you can find highly rated wines for under $20 a bottle. Read our full review to find out our top Macy’s Wine Shop picks.

Placing larger orders means you save on shipping. If you decide to order from the shop and your cart has 6 or more bottles shipping is free. There’s also a minimum order of 3 bottles of wine for every order.

Prices for Macy’s Wine Shop start at $10.99, with speedy delivery. You don’t have to wait long once you've made your selections. In just 1-3 days, your wines are shipped. Unfortunately, Macy’s doesn’t ship to all states, so check before you place your order.

9. Monthly Clubs – Best Diverse Monthly Offerings

Different subscription options cater to diverse tastes. As someone who appreciates a good bottle, I found Monthly Clubs' myriad subscription options refreshing. Its model ensures that whether you're new to wines or have a seasoned palate, there's a plan tailored just for you.

Monthly Clubs specialize in rare, elusive wines. On my wine journey, there's a certain thrill in unearthing rare vintages. It's noteworthy that Monthly Clubs goes the extra mile to source these hard-to-find bottles, letting you experience truly unique flavors.

Estate bottled wines stand out for their authenticity. I value the fact that Monthly Clubs focuses on estate-bottled wines, which are expertly curated by seasoned wine tasters. It adds an extra layer of trust and assurance for me.

There are 4 wine clubs to choose from. With the choice of The Premier Series, Bold Reds, Masters Series, and the Collectors Club, you're in for a treat. Each club has its own unique appeal, making sure every wine enthusiast finds their fit.

Cellar Notes enhance your wine tasting experience. Each delivery comes with Cellar Notes, and trust me, it’s a game-changer. These detailed notes provide context, offering insights about the wine, its origins, and the winery. It adds depth to every sip.

Gifting is straightforward with flexible delivery. If you're considering gifting a subscription, it makes the process seamless. With flexible delivery options, you can surprise a close friend and ensure they receive their package when it suits them. Read more about Monthly Clubs gifting options in the full review.

Customization is limited, but alternatives exist. While I appreciate Monthly Clubs for many reasons, I noticed it doesn’t provide deep customization options. If that's a dealbreaker for you, consider services like Firstleaf which leans more into personalized wine profiles.

Pricing from $20.98 offers value, but factor in the shipping. Starting prices at Monthly Clubs are competitive. However, it's worth noting that an additional $15 is charged for shipping and handling per delivery, so always factor that in when budgeting.

10. Plonk – Great for Eco-Friendly Wine Lovers

Plonk emphasizes organic wines. For those interested in sustainable practices, it's notable that this club focuses on bio-dynamic and eco-friendly selections. This approach is indicative of a broader industry move toward sustainable wine making.

Plonk operates on a boutique model. By specializing in limited-production premium wines, the club sources bottles that represent a diverse range of vineyards and their unique stories.

You can choose your favorite wine types for this premium wine club. Plonk provides options for red, white, or a combination of both. This ensures subscribers have a range of flavors to explore over time. Check out our review to find out how to sign up for Plonk’s wine club.

Several shipment sizes are available. Subscribers can opt for 4, 6, or 12 bottles per shipment, depending on preference or consumption patterns. This offers some level of flexibility.

Past favorites can be found in its shop. If you're looking to order a specific wine again or explore other options, Plonk's shop provides this opportunity without tying you to a subscription.

Shipments are expertly curated for you and include recipe pairings. One feature of note is the inclusion of recipe pairing suggestions. This addition helps in exploring potential food and wine combinations. Plus it takes the guesswork out of what dish might complement the wine's profile.

Plonk offers varied payment structures. You can choose a monthly payment model, which renews automatically. Alternatively, there's the option to pre-pay for those who prefer longer subscription periods.

Pricing and shipping are transparent. The starting price is $9.50 and for orders of 6 bottles or more, shipping is included. This is a standard approach in the wine club industry. It's an option worth considering for those who prioritize sustainability in their wine choices.

 Quick Comparison Table

Tips for Choosing the Best Premium Wine Clubs

To determine the best premium wine clubs, consider these essential factors so you can make an informed decision for yourself.

• Consider how many bottles you want: Understanding your wine consumption helps strike a balance between having an ample supply and preventing wastage. In my research, Bright Cellars stood out, allowing members to adjust their bottle count according to preference.

• The flexibility of subscriptions: It's crucial to select a club that adapts to your changing needs. This way, you can pause, cancel, or modify your subscription without hassles. I found Naked Wines provides flexibility for its members.

• Educational materials: Learning about wine enhances the tasting experience, making it essential for clubs to provide enriching content. When testing this, Vinesse impressed me with its in-depth wine guides and tasting notes.

• Customize the selection: The ability to tweak your wine assortment ensures you get what you love. While evaluating this criterion, Firstleaf emerged as a top performer, offering personalized wine selections tailored to individual palates.

FAQ

What’s the best premium wine club?

The best premium wine club often depends on your preferences. Firstleaf is popular for its personalized palate matches, making it a top choice for many. However, the right club for you will depend on your wine tastes, the regions you prefer, and the features you value most.

What is the difference between wine delivery and wine clubs?

Wine delivery typically offers 1-time purchases. Wine clubs, like Naked Wines, provide regular deliveries based on subscription models. With wine clubs, you can expect curated selections, exclusive offers, and often educational resources about the wines you receive.

What’s the best premium wine club for beginners?

Bright Cellars stands out for beginners due to its palate quiz pairing. This feature helps novices understand their preferences and introduces them to wines they might love. Vinesse is another option with its curated international selections, which can broaden a beginner's wine horizon.

What’s the best premium wine club for gifting?

Wine Insiders is a fantastic choice for gifting given its value on premium bottles. Its curated selection ensures the recipient gets a high-quality wine experience, making it a thoughtful and memorable gift option.

Best Premium Wine Clubs in 2023 — Final Score