Assuming we're going with a red, here are a few picks that your friend would likely not have tried before (based on your comments) and are all really great wines for the price (some on sale at wine.com)

Catena Alta Malbec 2016 from Argentina - $45 on sale
Antinori Pian delle Vigne Brunello 2014 - $60 on sale

Both of the above are "second tier" wines from fabulous vineyards and winemakers, the Malbec is a heavier / stronger wine, the Antinori easier to pair with a meal. The 2 below are from Spain and are also very "easy" to drink.

On the lighter side the Alta Vina Ardanza Reserva 2012 from Rioja - $40
The Vall Llach Embruix Priorat is another "second" - they have a 2017 which I haven't tried but the other ones I've tried have all been crowd pleasers $27 which is on the high side for this wine

If I were going to receive one of the above, I'd go for either the Rioja or the Malbec to get the best "return on investment"