Black Box Sauvignon Blanc

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Thinking Inside the Box
Wine in a box used to be the equivalent of a ham in a can: best avoided outside of a fallout shelter. But a new wave of premium-quality boxed wines is earning praise from oenophiles, who also love the cool, eco-friendly packaging and long shelf life. O asked Tyler Colman, author of A Year of Wine: Perfect Pairings, Great Buys, and What to Sip for Each Season, for his recommendations.

For a Weeknight Supper

Black Box Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand, $25 for three liters)

"It's the one you want to drink on the deck, when it's hot hot hot outside," Colman says of this bright, citrusy treat. Serve with grilled seafood.

Find this wine at Wine-Searcher.com
Yellow+Blue Rose

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For a Sunday Brunch
Yellow+Blue Rosé (Spain, $12 for one liter)

"You'll love the summery hints of strawberry in this organic vintage." Colman proposes a niçoise salad as a breezy lunch match.

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From the Tank Vin Rouge

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For a Backyard Cookout
From The Tank Vin Rouge: Côtes du Rhône (France, $40 for three liters)

This deep, dark red is produced by a cooperative of family-owned French vineyards. "I'd be very happy to serve this with grilled meats and burgers at my barbecue this summer," Colman says.

Find this wine at Wine-Searcher.com
Bandit Chardonnay

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For a Picnic on the Beach
Bandit Chardonnay (CALIFORNIA, $9 FOR ONE LITER)

Pack this low-key wine for an outdoor meal or a weekday aperitif. It's oaky, smooth—and delicious with crab cakes, says Colman.

Find this wine at Wine-Searcher.com

For bottled wines at boxed prices, see 15 Terrific Wines $15 and Under

Plus: Learn how to buy wine for a party