The hottest drink this summer? Chilled wine in a single-serve can
Underwood Rosé, 375 ml can
Tualatin, Oregon, $7 each
This Rosé is loaded with hints and flavors of peach, strawberry and watermelon and is perfect for alfresco dining on summer cuisine. Union Wine Company, the maker, is a leading brand in this category and offers varietals like Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Alcohol is a moderate 12 percent.
Crafters Union Red Blend, 375 ml can
Madera, California, $7
“Daring and Elegant” says this red blend’s label, offering blackberry and jam with hints of chocolate, vanilla and spices. Crafters Union’s goal is the grape growers and winemakers all help to make the best wine in a can possible. Pinot Grigio and Rosé are also available. Suggested food pairings include barbecue and grilled veggies. Alcohol is 13.5 percent.
Barefoot Spritzer, 250 ml cans
Modesto, California, $9/4-pack
This unique blend of Riesling and Chenin Blanc comes together in a light, fresh and spritzy way, with pear and melon notes and a lemon-lime finish. Also available in Moscato, Rosé and Red Sangria flavors. Try it over ice and enjoy with light picnic foods. A simple, non-offensive quaffer with 5.5 percent alcohol.
Sofia Coppola Blanc de Blancs, 187 ml can
Monterey, California, $15/4-pack
Slightly sparkling and zesty with hints of pear, melon and honeysuckle. A blend of Pinot Blanc and two other varietals. Pinkish hue, and each 187 ml can comes with its own straw in a cute package that holds four cans total. Also comes in Rosé and Brut Rosé. Alcohol is 11.5 percent, and a 750 ml pretty pink-wrapped can is also available.
House Chardonnay Wine, 375 ml can
United States, $6 each
Apple and citrus are up front, followed by peach and pear notes, then a slight toasty vanilla mouthfeel and a pineapple finish. The House brand has more than a dozen labels, from cans to 750 ml bottles to 3-liter box wines. It was created by Charles Smith, the wild-haired winemaker from Seattle, in 2004. Alcohol is close to 14 percent.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE WINERIES