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A New Era of Canned Wines: From Forgotten Option to Gourmet Favorite

drinks

By Alexander K.

- Jun 8, 2024

Once synonymous with underwhelming wine spritzers and described with adjectives like 'sugary' and 'low-grade', canned wines have turned the corner. In the past, the aroma of sulfur, a common problem and the uncertain shelf life of the canned varieties, had dampened enthusiasts' excitement. Today, however, the story is entirely different as canned wines have experienced a resurgence.

Presently, canned wines offer a sweeping variety of options, from crisp reds to complex Cabernet Sauvignons and Rieslings, orange wines, spritzes, and even brands associated with celebrity endorsements. They are available in several quantities: the 375-milliliter can (equal to half a wine bottle), 250-milliliter (equivalent to one and a half glasses), and 187-milliliter versions (equal to one glass). Their popularity has skyrocketed to such an extent that an International Canned Wine Competition now exists.

The best thing about canned wines is their flexibility. Whether you fancy a single glass without opening a full bottle, desire a red when your friend prefers a white, or crave a fizzy wine spritz - there's a canned option for you. Here are some outstanding canned wines to enjoy this summer.

Starting the list is Oona, a California rosé crafted in the traditional Italian fashion. This canned brand's inaugural offering, a collaborative effort by renowned chefs and food writers, such as Colu Henry, Natasha Pickowicz, Alexis deBoschnek, DeVonn Francis, and Pierce Abernathy, is tantalizingly fizzy, exuding the fruity taste of ripe strawberries and herbal notes.

Eric Wareheim and Joel Burt of Las Jaras Wines tantalize taste buds with a vibrant canned blend made from Zinfandel co-fermented with Merlot skins. Their creation combines playful hints of dark cherry, plum, and cocoa and provides an excellent daytime option.

In the quest for environmental sustenance, Sarah Hoffman of the Maker Wine Company teamed up with independent winemakers like Nicole Walsh of Ser and Teraj Bajjalieh of Terah Wine Co. Her Spanish White Blend bursts with notes of white blossom and citrus but retains enough body to pair with warm-weather favorites.

Jumbo Time Wines doesn't quite offer the usual cans but comes in smaller-format crown-cap sealed containers, serving a glowing orange wine with Alsatian grapes like the Riesling and Pinot Blanc. Its unique taste and bottle-like packaging hold a portion equivalent to half a bottle.

Nomadica Inc. aims to attract a younger audience and White Claw enthusiasts. Six years down the line, the brand's collection includes a series of sparklers and a delightful sparkling rosé made from organically grown Grenache.

Cancellor Sofia, launched in 2002 before canned wines gained popularity, has consistently offered a dry California sparkling wine, capturing green apple and light baked-bread notes. Une Femme Wines partners with female growers, winemakers, and designers to deliver canned wines suitable for any occasion. And if you need an alcohol break, Toronto-based brand, Proxies offers cans of non-alcoholic wines.

Last but not least is Rosadito, originating from Central Mexico's El Bajío region, the oldest wine-growing area in the country. It's a perfect poolside rosé, a blend of Grenache, Macabeo, and Verdejo, offering crisp notes of candied berries and extra ripe strawberries. Make sure to serve it ice-cold and close to a water body for the best experience.