Love wine
IMO i've always thought if you're going to give wine as a gift, you should buy it from a wine boutique like a JWebb or Bin 905 or something. That way, you can talk to someone who usually has a pretty good understanding of wine and what is in stock.
For my tastes, Canadian red wines are better value when you can keep them in a cellar for a few years, or you spend north of $30. Canadian Merlot is still likely your best bet for someone who likes Apothic Red.