A couple years ago, I had read an article in Fine Cooking on boxed wines. Back then, I wasn’t a big wine drinker, but I knew that boxed wine didn’t have a great reputation. I decided to try it anyway – Fine Cooking had never steered me wrong; I didn’t drink or cook with wine often enough so wanted something that would keep for a while; and you can’t beat the price (most are under $20 for the equivalent of 4 regular 750 ml bottles).
I’ve only tried one of boxed wines recommended in FC and in a later issue of Food Network Magazine, not because I don’t want to, but because I haven’t been able to find all the brands or I forgot which ones were recommended. However, I wanted to share this list with you anyway.
If you’ve tried any of these, please leave a comment – both myself and future readers will thank you for your input! =)
Recommended White Wines:
Banrock Station Chardonnay, from Australia
Black Box Chardonnay, from Napa Valley
I have tried the chardonnay, pinot grigio, and shiraz and have enjoyed them all, although the pinot grigio is my favorite, with a nice light flavor.
DTour Chardonnay
Wine Block Chardonnay
Angel Juice Pinot Grigio
Also tried Bota Box Pinot Grigio (Dec. 2009) – it’s a sweeter pinot but still very good.
Recommended Red Wines:
Hardys Stamp of Australia Merlot
Delicator Shiraz, from California
Black Box Cabernet Sauvignon, from Paso Robles
I have tried the chardonnay, pinot grigio, and shiraz and have enjoyed them all, so I would recommend giving the cabernet sauvigon a shot (sadly shiraz is the only red wine I drink!)
Wine Block Cabernet Sauvignon
Banrock Station Merlot, from Australia
Boho Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon
Pinot Evil
Oct. 2010 Update: Since wring this, I have also tried various wines from Bota Box and Fish Eye Wine. Would recommend both.
Sources: Fine Cooking No. 79 (July 2006, p. 34-35)
Food Network Magazine (Nov/Dec 2008)
Photos compliments of Black Box and the Block Wines.
