Summer is here and our attention turns toward outside activities — boating, the beach, picnics and the pool. These activities tend to be prohibitive of glass containers thus making wine not a viable option to enjoy on a hot summer day. Winemakers took notice and began selling wine in boxes with Franzia leading the way.

Boxed wines, also referred to as a BIB (Bag in Box), are typically produced in 3-, 4- and 5-liter sizes which is the equivalent to four to eight 750-milliliter bottles. BIB packaging is less expensive, lighter and more environmentally friendly than glass-bottled wine. The tap greatly reduces oxidation of the wine during dispensing thus allowing for a shelf life of approximately three to four weeks after opening.

The question amongst the aisles of a wine shop this time of year is, “But are they any good? If it’s in a box, it can’t be that good.”

The answer is a simple “Yes; as good as any of the high volume brands of wine you would buy in a glass bottle.”

The fact of the matter is that high volume brands enjoy an economy of scale and you will find them in boxes more readily than premium wines. However, several companies and producing a product they consider premium.

By far one of the best brands is Delicato’s Bota Box. Ten varietals (including all the standards) are produced in a 3 liter box but their Redvolution is a must try. It’s a great everyday red blended with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah and Petite Sirah. Delicato is pioneering a new 1.5 liter box size this year marketed as the Bota Brick.

Vin Vault is Gallo’s newest entry in the 3 liter box wine market. It is marketed as a portfolio of premium wines available in six varietals, each crafted in a distinct style: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Red Blend.

If you are looking for something a bit more unique, seek out Arrumaco Garnacha Rose in a 3 liter box. The Spanish Rose is 100 percent Garnacha from vineyards in Galicia which offers a mild-Atlantic climate and sandy soils. The wine is fermented at cool temperatures in stainless steel tanks with no malolactic conversion. Lighter in color and body than many other Spanish rosés, this one is loaded with intense raspberry and plum aromas that follow to a crisp yet silky palate.

So get outside, enjoy the summer. Enjoy the outdoor activities, but don’t forget to enjoy the wine!