Don't get boxed in when it comes to finding wines for the sidelines.

Like the stelvin screw cap, box wines have taken a bad rap in the past. But today you can find plenty of box wines that are tasty and affordable. For party planning or tailgating they make great sense.

Inside a box wine is a bag. Inside of that bag is the equivalent of 4 bottles of wine. Most box wines are under $25. Divide $25 by 4 and you get a great value per bottle price.

That bag also keeps the juice fresh and free from the elements that age wine: air and light. Which means a box wine can last for up to 6 months or longer and that makes them a great option for folks who like to have a glass of wine each night but don't drink through an entire bottle before it starts to take on vinegar/aging qualities.

Box wines have a nifty keg-like tapper on them, so when you want a glass, you press the tapper and out flows the fresh wine.

You can find box wines at big box stores (no pun intended) or local wine shoppes.

A few of my favorites:

Charla Tempranillo, Spain-The most widely planted red grape in Spain is tempranillo. It offers characteristics of black cherry, plum, soft spice in a medium bodied dry style. The Charla is EZ drinking and a great choice to please alot of palates. Plus its a great pair for game day fare: burgers, sloppy joe's, brats, tacos.

Charla Macabeo, Spain-Tropical fruit flavors and aromas in a smooth dry white wine. Macabeo is very similar to chardonnay so another way to please a lot of people.

Gran Verano Sauvignon Blanc, Chile-If you like those zippy tangy white grapefruit styles of Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand you will love this box wine from Chile. Another great value for a dry white wine that also pairs well with grilled chicken or pork or fish.

Powers Cabernet Sauvignon, Washington-Smooth, lush, medium bodied dry red wine in a box. Lovely aromas and flavors of black cherry, vanilla, without any harsh tannins or bite. Fire up the grill and open up the box.