How Many Bottles Are In A Case Of Wine | Find Out Here!

Have you ever found yourself at your favorite wine store, wondering how many bottles are in a case of wine? It’s actually one of the most common questions among first-time and experienced purchasers. Knowing exactly how many bottles come in each case makes buying and serving easier – encasing an educated decision as you select different varieties and styles. In this blog post, we’ll provide an overview of the number of standard bottles that come in a case, plus explain why the mix may vary depending on where you buy them from.

What is a case of wine?

A case of wine typically contains 12 bottles, each with 750 ml of wine, totaling approximately 9 liters. However, there are exceptions such as cases of 6 bottles for expensive varietals and larger bottles like magnums, double magnums, and jeroboams, which may contain as little as 2 to 3 bottles. The 6-Bottle Wine Sets can be a convenient alternative for sampling new wines or catering to smaller events.

The different types of wine cases

There are three types of wine cases, depending on the wine bottle size:

• Standard 12-bottle case: This is the most common type, containing 12 bottles of the same wine.
• 6-bottle case: If you prefer large format bottles, you can buy a case containing 6 magnum bottles (1.5 liters or 0.4 gallon.) Some standard size wines are also available in such cases.
• Mixed 12-bottle case: This case consists of 12 standard-sized bottles, allowing you to choose different wine styles. If you decide to build a mixed case, here’s how you can do it.

How many bottles are in a case of wine?

In a typical case of wine in the United States, there are 12 bottles. However, it’s important to note that there can be variations based on factors such as the type of wine, the producer, and the size of the bottles. For instance, exclusive or high-end wines may come in cases of six bottles, while larger-sized bottles like magnums or jeroboams may have fewer bottles per case. As a tip, if you’re looking for a smaller quantity or want to try new wines, consider our 6-Bottle Wine Sets as a convenient alternative to a larger case.

How bottle sizes and shapes affect a wine case?

Bottle sizes and shapes have a significant impact on wine storage. It affects factors such as protection from light, aging potential, and decanting process. Let’s explore these aspects in detail:

1. Protection from Light: The type of bottle used for wine storage impacts how well the wine is shielded from light. Generally, darker-colored bottles, like those used for red wine, offer superior protection compared to less opaque bottles used for white wine.
2. Aging Potential: The size of the bottle also influences how wine ages. Smaller bottles, such as 375ml, are typically used for wines intended to be consumed while young. On the other hand, larger bottles, like magnums, are commonly used for wines that are meant to be aged for a longer period.
3. Decanting Process: The design of the bottle can affect the decanting process, which involves pouring the wine into a decanter to aerate it before serving. Certain bottle designs, like Bordeaux bottles, facilitate easier pouring without sediment, while other bottle designs may make this process more challenging.

What wines should be included in your wine case?

3 Bottles of Everyday Red

A versatile selection of robust red wines like Cabernet, Chianti, or an Aussie Shiraz. Consider the nonvintage Marietta Old Vine Red ($15).

3 Bottles of Everyday White

Choose an easy-drinking white wine like Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, or Sauvignon Blanc. Opt for the crisp 2020 Rodney Strong Charlotte’s Home Sauvignon Blanc ($18).

1 Bottle of Everyday Sparkling

Include a value-for-money sparkling wine like the 2019 Naveran Cava Brut ($20) from Spain.

1 Bottle of Special-Occasion White

Impress with a white Burgundy such as the layered 2018 Joseph Drouhin Côte de Beaune Blanc ($60).

1 Bottle of Pricey Sparkling

Keep a bottle of premium Champagne like the nonvintage Bollinger Special Cuvée Brut ($79) for special occasions.

1 Bottle of Dessert Wine

For those moments that call for a sweet wine, go for Vin Santo from Italy, like the 2007 Castello di Monsanto La Chimera ($50).

1 Bottle of Good Rosé

Have a top producer rosé from Provence in stock, such as the 2020 Château Minuty M de Minuty ($23).

1 Bottle of Special-Occasion Red

Keep a spare bottle of top-flight red wine, like the luscious tobacco-scented 2018 Château Bourgneuf ($65) from Pomerol, for impromptu gatherings or special dinner parties.

How much does a case of wine cost?

The price of a case of wine varies between $100 and $500, depending on the type. On average, most cases range from $100 to $250. However, there are numerous high-quality wines that fall within the $300 to $500 per case price range.

How should you select your wine case?

To curate your wine case, begin by choosing the “house wines” – those that you anticipate consuming the most frequently. These should be priced slightly below your previously established average, allowing for additional budget to explore a few intriguing bottles. Don’t hesitate to opt for familiar styles, colors, grape varieties, and regions that you typically enjoy. A common approach is to select three identical red wines, as well as three identical white wines.

For reds, consider wines from the Rhône or Rioja regions, or popular Malbec varieties. Additionally, contemporary Australian wines boast exceptional quality that caters to both adventurous and less adventurous palates.

How do you buy a case of wine?

When purchasing a case of wine, you have two main options: custom cases or pre-selected cases. Let’s delve into the details of custom cases and explore how they work to help you make the right choice when buying wine:

Custom Case

Creating a custom case can be an exciting endeavor for wine collectors. By selecting wines based on your personal taste, expertise, and experience, you can curate a collection that truly represents your preferences. Customize your 12-bottle case to try new and intriguing wines, expanding your palate and taking risks.

Pre-Selected Case

For those seeking a more curated approach, a pre-selected case is a fantastic choice. With a specific theme in mind, such as exploring Old World Italian wines or discovering growing regions like Australia and New Zealand, a pre-selected case allows you to trust the experts’ recommendations. Enjoy the convenience of a carefully chosen selection while reducing the stress of customization, making it an ideal option, especially for bulk wine buyers or newcomers to wine collecting.

Wine Insiders: Discover Your New Favorites

At Wine Insiders, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of 12-bottle wine cases. Our collection caters to various budgets, styles, and flavor preferences, making it effortless to enjoy delicious wines from around the world. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast looking to sample the classics or a curious connoisseur seeking specialized collections of Old World reds, we have gift sets thoughtfully curated to complement any meal or occasion.

Pros and cons of buying wine by the case

Buying wine by the case offers several advantages and disadvantages worth considering. On one hand, it proves convenient when catering to a large group, stocking up a wine cellar, or purchasing in bulk for future enjoyment. On the other hand, buying wine by the bottle may suffice if you only need it for an upcoming meal or want to explore new varieties without committing to a full case. Ultimately, both options have their merits, so it’s a matter of personal preference. Nonetheless, the convenience of having a case of wine just a few clicks away can be quite satisfying.