Battle of the red box wines: Big Sipper, Franzia and Almdaden – taking one for the team!
Check out today’s pricing and retail availability for Big Sipper.
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Inspired by Big Sipper Robust Red: Enjoying the cotton candy at the local fair.
Specs: This wine is finished at 12% alcohol and first sampled in June, 2025.
In the glass: Deep, rusty red.
On the nose: Poured at room temperature and swirled vigorously, shows a shady and bold fruit.
On the palate: Rich and deep ripe blueberry fruit. Sleek and friendly. Almost no tannins to note.
In summary: Overall, rates three plus stars on the five-star Spirit of Wine scale, great value!
Following the black licorice test: Slightly sweeter at the start, but not a different experience overall.
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Inspired by Big Sipper Velvety Merlot: Bringing the clan together around the gathering tent at the basketball game.
Specs: This wine is finished at 13% alcohol and first sampled in June, 2025.
In the glass: Deep ruddy red.
On the nose: Poured at room temperature and swirled vigorously, is very shy with deep red fruit.
On the palate: Rich, deep peach and blackberry.
In summary: Overall, rates three stars on the five-star Spirit of Wine scale, just touching a plus for friendliness.
Following the black licorice test: Oh, yes, richer and wider!
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Inspired by Franzia Cabernet Sauvignon : Deep black cherry aromas around the flaming fire pit.
Specs: This wine is finished at 13.5% alcohol and first sampled , in June, 2025.
In the glass: Deep magenta.
On the nose: Poured at room temperature and swirled vigorously, shows a deep fruit and smokey nose. Potent.
On the palate: Soft, deep, bold and black fruity entry, followed by a languorous, smooth finish, with minimal acids or tannins.
In summary: Overall, rates a remarkable four stars on the five-star Spirit of Wine scale.
Following the black licorice test: Brings a sweet start to the sip, continues with the deep and flavorful finish.
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Inspired by Franzia Dark Red Blend: Bringing my friends together to root for our high school team!
Specs: This wine is finished at13.5 % alcohol and first sampled in June, 2025.
In the glass: Dark magenta.
On the nose: Poured at room temperature and swirled vigorously, shows a deep bold magenta violet.
On the palate: Brings a soft and bold fresh blueberry and musk base. Softens as it sits on the palate.
Following the black licorice test: Soft and bold, now touching four stars. Crazy best value!
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Inspired by Almaden Merlot: Enjoying the gaggle of folks at the goodie stand.
Specs: This wine is finished at 12.5% alcohol and first sampled years from vintage date, in June, 2025.
In the glass: Deep magenta.
On the nose: Poured at room temperature and swirled vigorously, enjoyed the deep, musky berry notes.
In summary: Overall, rates an impressive four stars on the five-star Spirit of Wine scale
Following the black licorice test: Oh, wow, a richer and sweeter entry. AND a finish that suggests a bolder and more robust finish. Awesome value!!!
