It used to be that we looked down our noses at wine in boxes or cans. But that has all changed. Wines in cans and boxes are more environmentally friendly because they leave a smaller carbon footprint. They’re lighter than glass, making them easier and less costly to transport. They’re also super convenient when planning a picnic, sailing or travelling to the cottage. Then there are those times when you want a glass of wine but don’t want to open a whole bottle. There’s a great variety of styles available, and it’s fun to have several on hand when you’re having friends over.
Fall may be on its way, but most of us are still living the outdoor life as much as possible. I decided to do a taste test to discover more about this trend. Here’s my curated list of wines in a can for you to try soon.
JOIY ROSE
Australia & New Zealand
Enjoy the taste of summer with notes of strawberries and cream and shimmering bubbles. It’s a total delight with prosciutto and melon or a shrimp salad. Crafted with a commitment to sustainability.
Dry 12% • LCBO# 647313 • $5.00 • Vegan
DARLING MIMOSA SPARKLING ORANGE
Ontario
Made in small batches from Ontario white wine and real orange juice, this was one of my favourites! Fresh flavours of melon, honey and, yes, orange juice. Serve it in a Champagne flute with a slice of orange for a delicious low-alcohol option. Perfect for brunch. This was such a pleasant discovery; I’m definitely going to try the Darling Grapefruit Mimosa and the new Darling Pineapple Mimosa. Yes, darling, pass the croissants and pour me a Mimosa!
Off-dry 5% • LCBO# 20857 • $3.85
ROSEHALL RUN PIXIE PETITE ROSE SPRITZER
VQA Prince Edward County, Ontario
A low-alcohol spritzer made from mainly Vidal plus Pinot Noir grapes and sparkling water. It shows delightful flavours of red berries, peach and tangerine with slight effervescence—a great choice to kick off a Girl’s Night or a wedding shower.
Off-dry 5.5% • LCBO# 19301 • $3.95
CHARLES BAKER RIESLING 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
This wine was outstanding, my favourite in the tasting. Charles Baker was one of the founders of the highly-esteemed Stratus Vineyards. I’m a big Riesling aficionado and will definitely buy this one again. You’ll taste peach, apple, honey and steely minerality in elegant balance in this medium-bodied wine. It showcases the premium-quality Riesling wines that Ontario proudly produces. Pair it with salmon in lemon sauce or Eggs Benedict.
Off-Dry 10% • LCBO VINTAGES# 18165 • $6.95
HUFF ESTATES ALL DAY ROSE
VQA Prince Edward County, Ontario
The LCBO can’t keep this one in stock; it flies off the shelf, and it’s easy to see why. This rosé has aromas of wild strawberry and bright cherry, along with flavours of candied red apples. Pair it with a shrimp ring or a savoury charcuterie platter.
Huff Estates Winery and Inn is an ideal spot to stay when visiting Prince Edward County. Not only do they have a tasting patio with a pizza café, they’re located a short drive from either Wellington or Picton. Next door is a fabulous outdoor sculpture garden and Oeno Gallery, which features contemporary art. You can stay onsite and enjoy breakfast in their dining room before a day of touring the many wineries in the area.
Dry 12% • LCBO VINTAGES# 20237 • $4.90
For more wine and food discovery from Jane Staples, visit www.bellovinoj.com
Header Photo: Courtesy Joiy