We’ve written before about some local wine producers experimenting with lower-end, alternatively packaged wine. That said, we were intrigued this past weekend as we happened into our local Cost Plus World Market. After browsing through the wine selection, we headed for the exit and got a bit sidetracked by a large display near the summer BBQ paraphernalia.
Stacked about chest-high were a bunch of small white boxes, some with green text and some with red. Upon closer inspection, we learned the white box with green writing was “Wine 4 Chilling” and was a 2007 California White Wine. The white box with red text was “Wine 4 Grilling” and was a 2007 California Red Wine. The boxes hold three liters of wine (equivalent to 4 750ml bottles) and run $14.99 each (as the display said: “That’s only $3.75 per 750ml”). On the back in fine print we noted the product is from Trinchero Family Estates and it appears they’re being marketed as eco-friendly (due to the packaging) and long-lasting (each box will apparently keep for up to four-weeks).
After giving it some thought, we didn’t wind up buying a box–we’ve got a healthy backlog of some seriously great wines to enjoy. So, that’s where you come in. Has anyone out there given either the Wine 4 Chilling or Wine 4 Grilling a shot? If so, let us know in the comments what you though and if we should pick-up a box or two…
Update: The initial post mistakenly noted these wines were from the Terlato group, but they are indeed a product of Trinchero Family Estates. We regret the error and have updated this entry accordingly.
TechTags Plugin [ Napa | Napa Valley | wine | winery | Trinchero | Trinchero Family Estates | Trinchero Wine 4 Chilling | Trinchero Wine 4 Grilling | Cost Plus ]
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Peggy Ankney 05.28.08 at 2:12 pm
We bought this wine and were quite pleasantly surprised at how smooth it was! I’ve been a wine snob for some time and laughed at my parents for buying box wine, but now I’m sold. I recommend this as a good, inexpensive table wine.
Alex Chauche 05.29.08 at 10:13 am
I picked up a box of the red wine 4 grilling after noticing that it was a Zinfandel-based blend, along with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. I’ve been finding the best-priced wines in the market have been California Zin-based blends, along with Columbia Valley, WA Cabernet and Merlot-based blends.
My longtime girlfriend and I were very pleased at the quality of the wine for the money. Very full-bodied and lots of fruit.
Stacy 07.21.08 at 9:10 pm
This is regarding the red “wine 4 grilling”. I was hesitant to buy this wine. I am the only one in the house who drinks wine and I ususally try to buy inexpensive wines for everyday wine drinking ($6 to 8 per bottle). I bought the box and it stayed in my cupboard for weeks, I was thinking, “what if I open it and it’s awful? Then I’ll feel I have to drink it ALL 4 BOTTLES FULL!” But when I did, I was pleasantly suprised. It’s a great wine! Very smooth and drinkable. Amazing for the price! I am planning on buying several boxes!
Jason 07.24.08 at 2:52 pm
I also consider myself somewhat snob-ish in the wine world. I bought the white (albeit I’m predominantly a red drinker) to go with a Thai seasoned Salmon over salad. I was curious to see how it would do with a spicy dish as an alternative to Riesling or Gewurz. Very surprised with nice acidity, floral notes, and balance. Somewhat heavier mouthfeel but not buttery or oaked up. This is definitely a great everyday drinker or even party wine.