Great Boxed Wines for SummerWines from a box don't have the best reputation. Worst case, they can be just as bad as (or worse than) the stuff you used to drink when you first became "legal" and didn't want to spend any cash, but wanted to be sophisticated. Best case: You'll find some good quality wines that just happen to be also conveniently available in a larger container. The system is actually pretty technologically advanced and can keep the wine fresh for 4 to 6 weeks, way longer than you should be hanging onto that quarter bottle of leftover red "just in case." And, they're cost-effective. Even the most expensive 3 liter boxes cost the equivalent of $12 a bottle, and when you're buying beverages for a big barbecue, the large quantity and compact size makes sense.
We tasted through a selection of boxes, provided by their importers/distributors. Here are 3 reds and a rosé that we think are worth clearing some shelf-space for:
Domaine Le Garrigon Cotes du Rhone 2011 Wineberry
(about $45 for 3L)
A nicely balanced red from France, with some plum and cherry flavors. Some smoky lamb chops would go beautifully with this one.
Related: Your Comprehensive Wine GuideBlack Box Malbec 2011
(about $26 for 3L)
A juicy Argentinean red, with a good combination of acidity and tannins (that mouth-drying aspect of wine that can make it go great with a hearty burger)
Big House Red 2011
(about $22 for 3L)
A easy-drinking California blend. We're sure this would be an all-around crowd pleaser.
Related: Stellar Sparkling Wines
Jenny & Francois From the Tank Rosé
(about $32 for 3L)
Summer in a glass: A French rosé that's on the dry side, yet still contains some red fruit flavors. Would be a good accompaniment to grilled seafood or a not-too-tart tomato salad.
What are your favorite boxed wines? Let me know in the comments!
- by Catherine Lo
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