Having big fun this summer? Consider big wine, columnist says

Good things come in small packages, but when it comes to wine, the reverseisn't necessarily true.

That's according to On The Coast's Master of Wine Barbara Philip. She says good wine can come in large volumes and at a good value, and that means you can host great summer events for a great price.

"If you are having people over for a party this summer, consider buying wine in a magnum bottle or even bag-in-box," she told On The Coast host Stephen Quinn. "The wines make for fun presentation and sharing."

Here are Philip's picks for good wine at a good price in a good size.

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Gazela. Vinho Verde. Portugal. 1.5L $16.99

"Crisp and quaffable and light in alcohol, Vinho Verde matches beautifully with a hot day. Try with a simple green salad or delicate seafood."

Monasterio de las Vias. Cariena Crianza. Spain. 2008. 1.5L $19.99

"The Reserva from Monasterio de las Vias is one of the most popular Spanish wines in B.C. and the Crianza is new to the market. Its medium body weight and spicy notes make it a good pairing with BBQbeef ribs."

Houchart. Ctes du Provence Ros. France. 2015. 1.5L $39.99

"The look of this beautiful provenal-shaped bottle reminds me of bistros in France where they drink more ros than white wine. Chill it in a large ice bucket for your next patio gathering.

Carawine. Terre de Siciliane Bianca. Italy. 3L $32.99

"Delicious bag-in-box that will last in your fridge for a couple of weeks if your guests don't finish it. It is a highly drinkable blend of Trebbiano, Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio made to be simple and fresh."

With files from CBC Radio One's On The Coast