The best boxed wines and big bottles for summer parties

Aldi bag-in-box Shiraz NV, Spain 12.5%

With its flavours of ripe, juicy blackcurrants, spicy twists and soft, lush texture, this red cries out for a summer barbecue. It’s remarkably good value for money (the box contains three normal bottles’ worth of wine, so it works out at just £4.49 per bottle). £13.49 for 2.25 litres, available from Aldi

Gérard Bertrand Côte des Roses Rosé 2023, Languedoc, France 13%

Sophisticated French rosé in a chic glass-cut magnum bottle (twice as big as usual), this would make a welcome summer party gift. It’s pale and crisp with a tang of citrus as well as wisps of red berries and even a light mineral dash. A fine aperitif. From £27.99 for 1.5 litres, or £21.99 as part of a mixed six, available from Majestic

Taste the Difference Pinot Grigio Blush 2023, Vigneti delle Dolomiti, Italy 12.5%

From northeast Italy, a pale rosé with sprightly fresh strawberries and a sweet hint of pear drops, although it finishes dry. A versatile, keenly priced pink to take on a picnic and sip with a classic spread of sandwiches, ham and quiche. £20 for 2.25 litres, available from Sainsbury’s

Taste the Difference Conegliano Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut 2023, Veneto, Italy 10.5%

A vintage, premium prosecco made in the heart of the region. It’s frothy and full of fresh pear fruitiness with just a little parma violet and a hint of almond. Party on… £19 for 1.5 litres, available from Sainsbury’s

Extra Special Pinot Grigio 2023, Vigneti delle Dolomiti, Italy 12%

Crunchy green apples and yellow pears spring out of this boxed white, made in the cool, high altitude northeast of Italy. It’s an easy-going, refreshing party white – or pair it up with salads, cold chicken or simple seafood dishes. From £17.95 for 2.25 litres, available from Asda

The Wine Society’s Generation Series Vinsobres 2021, Rhône, France 14%

This rounded, fairly rich but well balanced Rhône red in a magnum bottle would make a worthy centrepiece at a red meat feast. Expect raspberry and blackberry fruit and some cedary wood spice. From £28 for 1.5 litres, available from The Wine Society

Discover the rest of our drinks recommendations, from new styles for summer sipping to the best beers to drink with cheese.