To wine, or Not to wine..

[WineDilemma]

I've been struggling to think of a nice gift for a 25th Anniversary. Finally thought of getting a wine from that vintage (1980).

But, did some research and found that year wasn't particularly good (better in US & Australia). Which I thought might still be OK since I'm in Australia. Went on Wine-Searcher.com and found some wines on sale from that vintage.

However, I'm still anxious to commit. How will I know that the wine's been stored properly? I've found Vintage Charts that score wine of that vintage according to region. How well can I follow these? Will price be a good measure of drinkability?

Any suggestions? I've heard that Penfolds Grange is a safe option? I prefer red wine, but there's been suggestion that port or champagne keep better, so are safer options?

I know I could just have a back-up younger bottle, but it would be a bummer on the night if the bottle turns out off (especially after I've paid good money for it!).

Thanks in advance!! I'm a real newbie to the art of wine. Correct me if anything I've said is wrong.