We really like the idea of jug wine.

Unfortunately, the reality has been mostly disappointing--but no longer.

Like a poor man's magnum, a jug of wine is made for entertaining. And Simi's new jug wine, named Maiale Cieco, or Blind Pig, makes you want to throw a pizza party, or a spaghetti-and-meatballs party, or any sort of party that would benefit from a lusty, juicy red made from a blend of 66 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 20 percent Zinfandel and 14 percent Pinot Noir, all grown in the Alexander Valley.

During Prohibition, Simi was one of the few Sonoma wineries to secretly stay open, charging visitors an admittance fee to see an advertised attraction, like a blind pig (maiale cieco in Italian). Once inside, visitors filled growlers to take home.

Today, no clandestine dealings are necessary in order to purchase a 2-liter jug. You can buy one for $46, with subsequent refills for $36, and a punch card entitles you to half off your seventh refill.

Fourteen liters of wine might seem like a lot, but once you and your friends get drinking, you'll be heading back to Simi's Healdsburg headquarters faster than you can say "blind pig."

Simi Winery, 16275 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg; 707-433-3686 or simiwinery.com