Since boxed wine is a relatively recent phenomenon, many people are unfamiliar with the process of how it is made and packaged. Stigma that surrounds boxed wine, labeling it as poor quality, often deters people from giving it a try. However, boxed wine is being held to higher standards and now you can find a high-quality glass of vino in a box. Many people have misconceptions about how the wine inside is stored. Read on to find out how the unique “bag in a box” and Tetra-Pak systems make producing wine cheaper, more environmentally friendly, and keeps the wine inside fresh for longer.
It’s What’s On The Inside That Counts
On the exterior, a cardboard wine box may seem very unassuming. It is easy to see why a negative first impression is had by many people upon seeing a rather uninteresting exterior. In fact, many people have the belief that boxed wine just sits in the huge box much like a juice box. However, the system is much more refined. Inside of the cardboard exterior, a plastic bladder holds the wine. Attached to it is a valve for pouring wine that can be pulled through a hole or perforation in the box. Remove a safety seal from the valve and you’re ready to go. As you dispense wine, the bag inside deflates to keep air from getting into the wine, keeping it fresh for over a month.
The Tetra-Pak
Some types of boxed wine do sit directly in their box. But wait, didn’t we just say that they go into a special bladder inside of the box? Yes, we did. As boxed wine has become a great option for casual, everyday situations, not just formal dinners its packaging has evolved with it. The Tetra-Pak is a way to package drinks safely, cheaply, and conveniently. It’s almost guaranteed that you’ve held and drank out of a Tetra-Pak at some point in your life. A milk carton, juice box, and more are held in this unique packaging. It is made from paper and some aluminum that is coated in a layer of polyethylene to liquid-proof the inside. A screw on cap is then placed to keep the wine fresh. This allows winemakers to package wine in a small, even one or two serving, bottle that is easy to take on the go.
Give It A Try
One of the biggest problems for boxed wine is the negative thoughts people have just when seeing the packaging. By not seeing a bottle they automatically think that the wine inside is of lower quality. While this may have been true a generation ago, today’s boxed wine can hold its own with traditional bottled wine. If you’re debating whether to try it, we encourage you to pick up a box of your favorite variety and taste it for yourself. While you sip, enjoy your new knowledge on how that packaging keeps the wine inside fresh and better for the environment.
