The best picnic wines for summer

Susy Atkins

Susy is an award-winning wine and drinks writer, presenter and broadcaster and drinks editor for delicious. magazine.

From easy-to-carry wine bags and cans to pretty bottles you’ll want to repurpose after drinking, we’ve rounded up some of the best alternatively packaged wines for summer. Take them on a picnic, camping or to the beach.

If you’re seeking cocktails, find more of our top recommended drinks in bottles and cans here.

When in Rome Pinot Grigio NV, Terre di Chieti, Italy 13%

Here’s a brightly fruity pinot grigio, with plenty of apples and pears and a pithy citrus edge. Containing one large glassful (or two small ones), the can is very portable for festivals, hikes, barbecues, parties… Available from Sainsbury’s (£2.50/187ml can).

Redbrook Estate Bacchus 2021, Essex, England 11%

It’s not cheap, but you’ll rate this English bacchus. Chopped grass and elderflower join lemon and lime for a refreshing pour at a lighter than usual abv. The innovative paper-board bottle with bag inside is very light and almost entirely recyclable. Available from Laithwaites (£18.99)

The Society’s Claret 2021, Bordeaux 13.5%

This bag in box holds 3 bottles’ worth of an easy-going red bordeaux with fresh plum and mulberry notes and an almond hint. It’s mainly merlot and unoaked; a party or ‘house’ red which should keep for several weeks after opening. Good value too at under £7.50 per 75cl. Available from The Wine Society (£22/2.25 litres)

Thomson & Scott Noughty Organic Alcohol-Free Sparkling Rosé, NV, Germany 0%

Hurrah for a quality non-alc sparkler! It’s not as sweet as many no-lo wines (think more medium-dry) and has appealing strawberries, a red cherry tang and lively bubbles. One for a summer party – minus the hangover. Available from Ocado (£8.90)

Puglia Rosso 2021, Italy 12%

Juicy red made from southern Italy’s negroamaro grape which delivers ripe cherries and plums in a rounded, soft style with a chocolate coating. Pack the plastic mini bottle for a picnic and enjoy with cold meats or full-flavoured cheeses. Available from Marks & Spencer (£3.50/25cl bottle).

MOTH Aperitivo Spritz, London 10%

MOTH makes excellent canned cocktails and this one makes a perfect summer sundowner. With a decided sweetness balanced by bitter orange, it’s based on Tarquin’s top-notch Cornish gin. Chill the can well, then head to the garden/balcony/beach. Available from Sainsbury’s (£3.75/20cl).

Cotes des Rosés 2022, Languedoc, France 13%

Elegant both inside and out, this sophisticated, dry southern French rosé comes in a tall bottle with a glass stopper instead of a cork which makes it easy to reseal and store in the fridge. Pale and delicate with wisps of red berries and a citrus tang. Available from Tesco (£11).

The Hidden Vine Branco 2022, Douro, Portugal 13.5%

With its aromatic whiff of rosewater and crisp, lemon-zest finish, this unusual northern Portuguese white would be a fine partner for our sea bream crudo with orange, chilli, olive, mint and pistachio. Available from The Co-op (£8.25, down to £7.25 until 26 July, The Co-op).