Having emerged from the college bubble of all-night boozefests, I was surprised to read that Americans are actually drinking less alcohol than 50 years ago. Researchers go on to report that we’re drinking less beer, but more wine.
 

For college students wine might seem out of their price range while beer is a cheaper, more drinking-game-conducive option. However, with the explosion of boxed wines, which are usually less expensive and stay fresh longer, students on campus should take a second look at this magical grape elixir.
 

For the uninformed, I'll don my wine connoisseur hat and guide you through eight boxed wines that will put a little class in your keggers:
 

1. Franzia Sangria: While not the best by a long shot, Franzia is the classic boxed wine. If you go for the red sangria, the taste isn’t nearly as bad, with fruity flavors accented with a fresh citrus flavor. Plus, the price can’t be beat.
2. Peter Vella Burgandy: Another bargain brand, Peter Vella may not be for wine aficionados but the burgundy goes well with grilled meats, making it perfect for that back-to-school barbeque. Enjoy the medium body with hints of black cherry.
3. Almaden White Zinfandel: If you like sweet, you’ll probably like this reasonably priced zinfandel. This pink berry wine with floral aromas tastes like a sugary treat.
4. Black Box California Merlot: Winner of the 2007 San Francisco International Wine Competition this wine is the Rolls Royce of boxed wines but without the Rolls Royce pricetag. The delicious redberry wine goes down smoothly.
5. Target Wine Cube Pinot Grigio: This white wine is packed with sweet pear and white peach flavors. Best of all, the aromatic pinot grigio is available at select Targets and Supertargets so even when you can’t get to a liquor store you can have a refreshing beverage.
6. Corbett Canyon California Merlot: At only $10, this boxed wine provides a great bang for your buck. With a cherry-and-cigar nose and tastes of cherry, plum and cranberry, the merlot delivers with a long finish, and isn’t that what every guy wants.
7. FreeRange Red Bordeaux: For boxed wine at its best go for this Bordeaux that has a slightly smokey aroma and hints of cherry and oak. The experts must agree as the rich wine made the list as one of Bordeaux’s Best Affordable wines last year.
8. Banrock Station Chardonnay: This brisk beverage brings a zesty citrus note to the glass. Enjoy on a crisp fall night and let the good times roll.