Due to its portability and convenience, boxed wine is a popular summer choice, especially for large social gatherings or cottage getaways. But a steady stream of inexpensive – and largely inferior – bag-in-box wines have left a bad taste in many consumer’s mouths, and producers are hoping to change that attitude as they embrace larger format options for premium selections.
Fans of light and bright white wines are the best served with a good selection of enjoyable pinot grigios, sauvignon blancs and blends from international and domestic producers. Finding quality reds to pour out of a spout remains a challenge.
Folonari Valpolicella Classico (Italy), $50.55 / 3 L
A dry red wine that’s distinctively Valpolicella, offering a mix of tart and juicy cherry flavours with some spice and earthy accents that work nicely with pizza, pasta or whatever meat is on the grill. Folonari’s popular pinot grigio is also widely available in the three-litre format. Available at the above price in Ontario, $59.99 in Saskatchewan, $53.99 in Manitoba.
La Vieille Ferme Luberon Blanc (France), $39.90 / 3 L
First introduced by the Perrin family in 1970, the La Vieille Ferme label includes a red, white and rosé from vineyards in the south of France. I’m partial to the simple yet satisfying style of the white, which is a blend of grenache blanc, ugni blanc and vermentino. Expect pleasant citrusy and floral notes as part of its fresh and appetizing character. Drink now. Available at the above price in Ontario, $46.99 in Saskatchewan, $43.99 in Manitoba ($38.99 until June 30).
Santa Carolina Reserva Sauvignon Blanc (Chile), $41.05 / 3 L
A fresh and fragrant expression of sauvignon blanc with nicely balanced citrus, tropical fruit and herbal flavours. This is refreshingly dry and offers a hint of that salty character common to wines from Chile’s Leyda Valley. Drink now. Available at the above price in Ontario, $37.99 in British Columbia, $35.99 in Saskatchewan, $34.99 in Manitoba.
Wayne Gretzky Pinot Grigio (Canada), $47.95 / 3 L
This well-made pinot grigio from Ontario delivers appealing pear and melon flavours with a touch of residual sweetness. An easy to appreciate style that makes it a natural for entertaining. Drink now. Available at the above price in Ontario, $49.99 in Manitoba.