Forget sticking to the same old chardonnay or merlot next time you buy a bottle of wine: 2025 is the year to branch out and discover exciting new wines. Choosing a decent bottle can sometimes feel daunting, especially when you're trying to impress guests. But, exploring new wine styles can be a fun adventure, even if you don't consider yourself a wine expert.

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We asked Laithwaites' wine expert Grant Hedley to choose five on-trend wines to buy in 2025 that are sure to be a hit – making you the host with the most regardless of your wine knowledge. Grant says, "This year, we’re seeing a move towards more adventurous choices, with drinkers choosing lesser-known varieties or regions you wouldn’t expect. Lighter, juicier reds are gaining popularity, and there’s also been a sway towards retro choices – lambrusco is making a comeback. And, of course, the palest of the pink rosé wines continue to be as popular as ever." Read on to discover his top five picks, from a hidden-gem sparkling red, to a fresh new rosé to try.

For more like this, check out our guide to debunking 10 popular wine myths, the best champagne to buy and the best English sparkling wines.

Great food deserves great wine – that’s where our Wine Club comes in

What makes tasty food even more delicious? A great glass of wine, of course! That’s why the Good Food Wine Club stocks over 1,500 wines, so you can be sure you’ve got the perfect bottle to go with any dish or occasion, whether it’s a midweek meal or lavish dinner party.

Visit goodfoodwineclub.com/wine/on-offer-wine to discover our wines, exclusive offers, expert advice, wine gifts and tips for matching food and wine.

5 most on-trend wines to buy in 2025 to impress your friends

L'occhiolino Sparkling Red NV – Emilia Rosso IGT

L'Occhiolino

Have you tried sparkling red wine yet? Laithwaites describes L’Occhiolino as "Italy's best-kept secret". It may seem unusual at first, but this light and fruity red challenges any preconceptions you might have and is sure to get your friends talking at your next dinner party. It's medium-bodied and only 7.5% ABV for easy drinking, with notes of juicy fruit and a light sweetness.

Available from:
Laithwaites (£7.99)

Domaine Du Mas Ensoleillé Rosé 2024

Domaine Du Mas Ensoleillé Rosé 2024

Move over Whispering Angel: this is the new rosé to be serving this summer. We'll always be fans of a crisp, pale pink rosé, and this Provence example doesn't disappoint. Grenache and syrah are hand-picked at night and blended for a subtle berry flavour balanced by zesty lemon and a sharp, savoury edge. If you want to pair it with food, serve with seafood or light vegetarian dishes.

Available from:
Laithwaites (£10.99)

Lusus Douro Red 2022

Lusus Douro

The family dynasty behind this bottle has been producing Portuguese wine for 15 generations – once famous for port, it now also produces everyday wines. This is one of its newest styles, making it a great one to introduce to friends. It's an easy-going red from the Douro region, with notes of ripe blackberry, plum and subtle spices.

Available from:
Laithwaites (£9.99)

Kew Gardens Blanc de Cabernet Brut NV

Blanc de Cabernet

This pretty bottle makes a great gift for hosts. Made in collaboration with Kew Gardens, this small range of wines champions biodiversity and lesser-known grape varieties, so you can be sure you're introducing people to something new. The blanc de cabernet is a bright, creamy, sparkling white that's intriguingly made from red cabernet sauvignon grapes. It's great for toasting special occasions.

Available from:
Laithwaites (£12.99)

GG Grenache Gris 2023

Grenache Gris

Looking for a new white wine to try? This unique bottle is made purely from grenache gris (a rare find) and oak-fermented for extra depth of flavour and a well-rounded oak spice. The dry white is full of warm peach, mandarin and orange blossom on the nose, with stone fruit coming through on the palate.

Available from:
Laithwaites (£11.99)

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