A friend and fellow Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food Awards judge recently asked me about box wines, so I thought I would share some information on this ‘phenomenon’ that has not yet taken to our shores in any major way. In general, most of the markets on this side of the world have long held to the belief that similar to screwcaps, wine in a box is always low quality. Great wine is great wine, regardless of the packaging; sadly the converse is also true, and there are many producers out there using the box simply to keep their costs as low as possible and not for all the other major benefits that it delivers.

History

Box Wine, otherwise called Bag-in-Box, was created 51 years ago by Australian wine producer Thomas Angove. The basic design called for the wine to be stored in an airtight plastic bladder in a cardboard box where the package would be cut open, the wine would be poured and then resealed. Over the years, many developments and technological advancements have greatly improved the pouring process with a specialised tap that allows the wines to be poured, but prevents air from entering the container. With the understanding that oxygen is one of the greatest enemies of wine, wine in a box can last longer once opened.

Fast growing

Over the past 10 years, box wine has been one of the fastest-growing segments of wine in America. The fact that a number of major wine brands have begun to put premium wines in bag-in-box has helped tremendously to overturn the stereotype that box wine is an alternative way of packaging inexpensive jug wine. Some research data shows that in 2010, only two box wine brands enjoyed sales of more than a million dollars. In 2014, that figure increased to 16 brands, with another five nearing the million-dollar mark. Box wine represents more than 50 per cent of all wine sold in Norway and Sweden.

Benefits of Box Wine

With the desire for so many people to go green, box wine is seen as more environmentally friendly. It is very portable and convenient – take it anywhere without worrying about breakage, and no corkscrew is needed. It stays fresh longer. every time a glass is poured, it’s like opening a new bottle, and the wine in that box stays perfect (almost) for at least 3-4 weeks after opening when kept in the fridge.

Quantity and price

it is mostly sold in 3L or 5L packaging, perfect for parties, and the cost per 750ml (a regular wine bottle size) is low. The images are indicative of what’s on the market.

My personal experience with box wine was surprisingly positive. It was many years ago when one of the major wine importers tested the market with the product. The wines tasted great from my own side-by-side bottle VS box test. I had recommended it to someone who wanted wine for larger gatherings, but our marketing was not successful, so it was discontinued.

It is definitely not the ideal vessel for ageing, but it’s for wine intended to be drunk right away. Box wine is great for parties, a picnic outing with friends who enjoy wines and are not too snobby.

Christopher Reckord – Information Technology Entrepreneur & Wine Enthusiast. Send your questions and comments to creckord@gmail.com. You can also follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Periscope @chrisreckord and on Twitter: @Reckord