Has there ever been a better time to drink boxed wine? Around the globe, winemakers are turning to box formats not just for convenience and value, but also for their environmental benefits. Since bag-in-boxes are light and pack together easily, producers can ship much more wine than in glass bottles while reducing their carbon footprint. Plus, bag-in-box wines can reduce waste, preserving opened wines for longer—up to weeks in the fridge.
While box wines have long been a great option for big parties or to have on hand for everyday sipping, that often meant the wines within were intended to be drunk young—and while distracted. Now you can find wines in a box that have routinely earned outstanding scores and that deserve attention either on their own or served with a fine meal.
To help you sort through the diverse selection currently on the market, Wine Spectator asked six top U.S. sommeliers which boxed wines meet their standards for value and deliciousness. Hailing from Spain, France, California and beyond, these picks are sure to make you a boxed wine convert.
Ami-Ami
“Boxed wine has become such a fun category to explore. Gone are the days of only bland and unremarkable wines to be found in boxes. [A recent discovery is] the charming French-made wines from Ami Ami—I especially enjoy the citrusy and refreshing Vin Blanc which is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Mauzac (a grape local to the south of France where this wine is made). —Mandy Naglich, wine director of Best of Award of Excellence winner Ardesia Wine Bar, New York City
Nomadica Wine Company
“Although you're not going to find grand cru Burgundy in a box, there has been a massive jump in quality levels for boxed wine of late. Nomadica, a project started by a sommelier, makes balanced, bright, bone dry wines, with a commitment (as much as they can) to responsible farming and business practices.”—Jake Henriksson, wine director of Best of Award of Excellence winner Beckon, Denver
Bridge Lane
“Seek out a domestic gem from Long Island in NY: Bridge Lane. They have been boxing their wine for quite some time and all of their offerings are solid and reliable. Try their Bordeaux-style red blend, rich with notes of black cherries and spice, or their delightful rosé.”—Mandy Naglich
Hérisson
“I recommend Nomadica and Hérisson boxed wines. Both stand out for their fresh, vibrant flavors and eco-friendly packaging, making them ideal choices for those seeking value, quality and a smaller carbon footprint. They taste even better with a slight chill, offering a refreshing and easy-drinking experience.”—Sean Crenny, wine director of Award of Excellence winner Coeur, Ferndale, Mich.
Tablas Creek
“Tablas Creek, a winery in Paso Robles that produces southern Rhône blends has a collection called Patelin de Tablas offered in [750ml bottles and] three-liter boxes. All of their wines are incredible and affordable, but I particularly love the Patelin de Tablas Rosé.
Tablas Creek is a leader in organic, biodynamic, sustainable and regenerative agriculture and winemaking, so the decision to offer high-quality wine in packaging that uses less energy to produce makes sense. Tablas Creek continuously prioritizes sustainability without compromising on quality. Along with being delicious and compact—the box conveniently fits in my fridge—bag-in-box wines stay fresh for much longer than an average 750ml because it reduces the wine’s exposure to oxygen.”—Sarah Vanags, wine director of Award of Excellence winner Casa Teresa, Washington, D.C.
Quadrum
“Quadrum makes a boxed red blend, white blend and rosé blend that are all pretty solid, but I particularly like the rosé. There’s often a box in my fridge. It’s a sustainably farmed, hand-harvested, Spanish table wine that just happens to be in a box. The rosé is a 50-50 blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha with lovely ripe red fruit notes and a surprising amount of structure for a boxed wine.”—Lily Stagg, head sommelier of Award of Excellence winner MaMou Restaurant, New Orleans
“[The Quadrum Lado a Lado], a red blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha, is fruit-forward with hints of pepper and leather. It’s smooth and versatile, great for pairing with hearty dishes or enjoying on its own.”—Laila Bazahm, wine director of Award of Excellence winner El Raval, Austin
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