November 9th 2024.
If you're curious about trying box wine, there are certain ones you should definitely consider and others you might want to avoid. According to Metro's drinks editor, there has been a recent surge in demand for box wine, which used to be associated with penny-pinching students and insufferable festival-goers. But now, with improved quality and convenience, more and more people are opting for this alternative packaging format.
Personally, I have a soft spot for box wine, as it was a staple in my household growing up and my parents still exclusively drink it. I can't deny the appeal of being able to simply push a tap and pour yourself a glass after a busy day, without the hassle of wrestling with a corkscrew. Plus, with the added bonus of being able to keep it in the fridge for up to 6-8 weeks, it's a convenient option for those who enjoy a glass of wine every now and then.
But let's not forget the environmental benefits of box wine as well. It's 86% lighter than a bottle, making it more portable and leaving a lower carbon footprint. And for those who are budget-conscious, it's also a decent value for money.
However, there is one key difference between box wine and bottled wine that many may not know about. It's called the "headspace bubble" - the air space that remains after filling the container. In a bottle, this space is minimal, but in a box, it's significantly larger. This means that without the addition of sulphur dioxide, which acts as a preservative, box wine would quickly lose its freshness and oxidize. As a result, boxed wine tends to have higher levels of sulphites, which can sometimes affect the taste.
But fear not, there are still some great options out there. Here are a few of the best and worst boxed wines available at supermarkets.
Starting with whites, the Wine Route Trebbiano Pinot Grigio from Tesco is a zesty and refreshing option, perfect for a summer day. For a slightly higher price, Waitrose's Crisp & Floral Italian White offers a creamy and approachable taste with notes of lime blossom, peach, and lemongrass.
Moving on to rosé, the Wine Route Italian Blush from Tesco is unfortunately lackluster and unbalanced on the palate. On the other hand, the Bijou Le Chic Rosé Pouch from Waitrose, though slightly lacking in fruit intensity, offers a decent option if you're looking for a change from your usual bottled rosé.
And for reds, the Le P'tite Pierre Red from Tesco is all about the cherries, with a light and fruity taste that is perfect for summer. For a more opulent option, try the Kooliburra The Reprobates Red from Aldi, which offers a sweet and juicy taste with hints of blueberry and a long finish.
In conclusion, boxed wine may not have the same allure and prestige as bottled wine, but it's definitely worth a try for its convenience, environmental benefits, and improved quality. Plus, with a little bit of research, you can find some great options that won't break the bank. Have you tried box wine before? What are your thoughts? Let us know! And for more expert drinks content, make sure to check out Metro's Drinks Column for the latest trends and recommendations. Cheers!
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