How Long Does Boxed Wine Last?

Whether you're an experienced wine drinker or a novice just starting in the beautiful world of fermented grapes, you may have considered investing in a box of wine. The convenience and price of boxed wine have made it an attractive option for many people, but one big question remains: how long does boxed wine last?

What Is Boxed Wine?

Boxed wine is an inexpensive, convenient way to purchase and store wine. It is sold in plastic-lined cardboard containers, similar to milk cartons. The shape of the container allows for a larger volume of wine to be sold at once, usually containing 3 liters (101 US fl oz) of wine. Thanks to the convenient packaging, boxed wine is quickly becoming a standard purchase for casual wine drinkers.

Boxed wine also has a longer shelf life than bottled wine. Most boxes are vacuum-sealed, which helps keep out oxygen and other contaminants, slowing the spoiling process. Depending on the type of wine, this extended shelf life can range from 6 weeks to over a year.

Types of Boxed Wine

There are several types of boxed wine, each with advantages and drawbacks. The most common type is the cardboard box, which usually contains 3 liters (101 US fl oz). This size is perfect for large groups or if you're an incredibly thirsty wine drinker. This type of container is also the most eco-friendly, made from easily recyclable cardboard.

However, there are also plastic containers that are becoming increasingly popular. These non-breakable containers can hold the same amount of wine as a cardboard box but are more compact and stackable, making economical storage much more straightforward. The downside to these packaged wines is that they will last less than a cardboard box- about 4 to 8 weeks.

How Long Does Boxed Wine Last?

The shelf life of boxed wine depends on several factors. The type of wine, the kind of container, and the amount of oxygen that gets into the box all affect the time it lasts.

• Red wines with a higher tannin level and a lower acidity will last longer in a box. Cabernets, Burgundies, and Merlots tend to have a longer shelf life, lasting up to a year in a cardboard box and several months in a plastic container.

• White wines tend to last between 2 and 6 weeks, regardless of the type of container used.

• The type of container also affects shelf life. Generally, wines in cardboard boxes with a vacuum-sealed lid will last up to a year, while a plastic container, such as a Tetra Pak, lasts 4-8 weeks.

• Oxygen also plays a significant role in how long boxed wine will last. If your box has been opened and exposed to oxygen, the shelf life will drastically decrease. Could you re-seal your pack with its original lid to help keep the wine fresh and prolong its shelf life?

Advantages of Boxed Wine

Boxed wine has several advantages over bottled wine. For one, it typically has a lower price tag. It is also much easier to store, as you don't need to worry about breakage, and the containers take up far less room than bottles. Finally, most boxes come with a spout for easy pouring, eliminating the need for a corkscrew or other bottle-opening tool.

Storage Tips For Boxed Wine

Fortunately, it only takes a little to store boxed wine properly. Here are some helpful tips:

• Store the boxed wine in a cool, dark place. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

• Could you make sure to re-seal the box after use? This will help to protect the wine from oxygen and other contaminants that can cause it to spoil quickly.

• If you plan on drinking the wine later, keep it in the refrigerator. This will help keep the wine fresh for up to 8 weeks.

• Could you make sure not to shake the box? This can cause the wine to occur oxidation or sedimentation.

Conclusion

Boxed wines are a great and affordable alternative to traditional wines, and thanks to their extended shelf life, they are becoming increasingly popular with casual wine drinkers. You can keep your boxed wine fresh for up to a year with the proper storage and care. So grab a box and get ready to enjoy some delicious wine anytime you like!