Canned wines have evolved significantly, offering an array of benefits. They are lightweight, recyclable, easy to open, and quick to chill, making them perfect for summer. Moreover, their carbon footprint is lower than traditional packaging, and they come in a variety of styles. The quality of canned wines has dramatically improved, shaking off the tinny flavors associated with earlier versions. While some of these wines may still carry minor flaws, many excellent options are now available in cans.

This summer marks the arrival of popular wine selections in canned form. For instance, La Vieille Ferme, produced by the renowned Perrin family in southern Rhône, offers a non-vintage rosé made from cinsault, grenache, and syrah, which is easily accessible. The white variation is yet to launch, but Tesco has introduced the non-vintage La Vieille Ferme Red, a straightforward, fruity red featuring black cherry and dark berry flavors. Les Dauphins Côtes du Rhône, crafted from grenache and syrah by the 70-year-old Union des Vignerons des Côtes du Rhône, presents an even more refined choice at 14% ABV, making it ideal for barbecues.

The Canned Wine Co, established in 2019, offers several options that may come at a premium. A standout is their 2022 No 2 Viognier, an organic wine at 12.5% ABV, characterized by bright, floral fruit notes. Meanwhile, the Banks Brothers, founded by Michelin-starred chef Tommy Banks and his brother James, carries a solid selection. For summer, the 2021 No 13 Pineau d’Aunis Rosé from Coteaux du Vendômois is a must-try with its 11.5% ABV, boasting a dark salmon color with fruity and peppery notes.

The concept of canned wines took hold in the New World before reaching the UK, with American brands emerging in the early 2000s. South Africa has also embraced canned wine, likely due to a lifestyle that favors outdoor events. Lubanzi’s 2024 Chenin Blanc from Swartland is particularly noteworthy for its Fairtrade and vegan-friendly attributes, delivering creamy notes of nectarine.

Highlighted Canned Wines

Les Dauphins Côtes du Rhône Rouge, France 14%, available at Waitrose for £3.75, stands out as one of the few remarkable canned reds this summer, featuring an authentic, bold profile with smoky plum notes.

Nice Sparkling White, Spain, 10%, in a 200ml can, available at Asda for £2.48, is a refreshing, lemony fizz made from the airen grape.

La Vieille Ferme Rosé, France 12.5%, in a 200ml can, now at Tesco for £2.75, is a crisp, pale pink wine with herbal and fruity characteristics.

Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand 12.5%, in a 200ml can at Sainsbury’s for £3.60, delivers vibrant green apple and passion fruit flavors typical of a Marlborough Sauvignon.

This Week’s Supermarket Selections

2024 Lubanzi Chenin Blanc from Swartland, South Africa, 12.5% in a 250ml can, priced at £3.65 at Waitrose. This Fair for Life Lubanzi option features crisp yet buttery fruit, perfect for picnics.

2021 Banks Brothers Pineau d’Aunis Rosé No 13, Coteaux du Vendômois, France, 11.5%, in three 250ml cans, available for £21. This rich, flavorful rosé is a fantastic alternative to pricier Provençal options.

La Vieille Ferme Red, Vin de Table, France, 12.5%, in a 200ml can at Tesco for £2.75, is fruity and easy to drink, fitting well within the popular “chicken wine” selection.

2022 Organic Viognier No 2, Vin de France, 12.5%, in three 250ml cans for £18. This is noted as the best from the Canned Wine Co, crafted from the fashionable viognier grape—ideal for summer sipping.