On September 9 wine lovers around the world come together to celebrate International Box Wine Day, a day to acknowledge the innovation, convenience and growing quality of boxed wine. Once the poor cousin of the wine world, boxed wine has become the symbol of practicality and sustainability and is loved by casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.

Boxed wine has an interesting history that started in 1965 when Australian winemaker Tom Angove introduced the “wine cask”. This was a collapsible plastic bag inside a cardboard box, a practical solution to store and preserve wine. Designed to keep the wine fresh for longer the wine cask soon became a staple in Australian homes. Boxed wine was originally seen as cheap and convenient but now premium wines are available in this eco friendly packaging.

On International Box Wine Day there are many reasons to toast. One of the main benefits is its freshness. Unlike bottled wine which can go off in a few days after being opened, boxed wine stays fresh for up to 6 weeks due to its airtight design. Perfect for wine drinkers who like to enjoy a glass over a longer period. Boxed wine is also more environmentally friendly than traditional bottles, requiring less packaging and producing fewer carbon emissions in transport. Up to 85% less packaging than bottled wine so a great choice for eco conscious drinkers.

Boxed wine is also cheaper, a 3L box is the equivalent of 4 bottles of wine. Perfect for big gatherings or for those who like to have a steady supply of wine on hand without the worry of it going off. Its versatility is another reason for its popularity. Boxed wine is light, portable and durable, great for outdoor events like picnics, barbecues or beach days. Easy to transport, won’t break and can be enjoyed anywhere, that’s a big plus.

There are also some fun and interesting facts about boxed wine. In recent years it has become a global phenomenon with the global market expected to be worth $7.2 billion by 2025. While Australia is still the leader in boxed wine production, the format is gaining popularity elsewhere too. Boxed wine’s reputation has also improved with many premium winemakers embracing the packaging. Even Penfolds one of Australia’s most iconic wine companies has entered the boxed wine space with high quality wines that challenge the perception of boxed wine as a budget option.

 

Another cool feature is its wine preservation. The inner bag design allows the wine to contract as you pour, minimizes the air exposure and keeps the wine fresh for much longer than an opened bottle. Perfect for wine lovers who want to have a glass without worrying about the rest of the wine going off. And on top of that boxed wine is often chosen for its environmental impact. Studies show boxed wine produces 50-75% less waste than bottled wine so it’s a greener option for producers and consumers.

 

Boxed wine has a special place in Australia, the birthplace of this format. Since its invention Australia has remained the leader in boxed wine production and offers high quality options from regions like Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. These boxed wines are a reflection of Australia’s great terroir and perfect for laid back BBQs, casual gatherings or just enjoying at home. Many of Australia’s top wineries have embraced boxed wine as a sustainable and convenient option and offer premium wines that are just as good as their bottled counterparts.

September 9, whether you’re having a glass at home or taking it to an outdoor occasion, boxed wine is versatile, sustainable and improving. It’s clear boxed wine has come a long way from its humble beginnings and is now a loved option for wine lovers everywhere.