How to Store Wine in Bags

Bag-in-Box wines are the latest packaging solution for commercial wine.

Bag-in-Box packaging is used for many wines. They feature a sturdy cardboard box packaging, inside of which is housed a polyurethane plastic bladder filled with wine. Like a wine cask, a spigot allows the wine to flow, one glass at a time. The wine bag is designed to reduce packaging costs and keep the wine fresh over time. With a few key differences to keep in mind regarding storage methods for boxed wine over bottled, the wine bag will keep wine fresh and full of flavor.

Things You'll Need

• Ice

Instructions

1. 

   Bag-in-Box wines act like old-fashioned wine casks to protect wine.

   Store unopened containers of Bag-in-Box wine in a cool, dry place. Prior to being opened, the wine can be keep in storage for one to two years. Some boxed wines come with a freshness date or "use by" date stamped on the packaging. The plastic bag inside is not hermetically sealed, so it has a shorter shelf live than bottled wine.

2. Retain the cardboard packaging for storage because the cardboard protects the wine from the effects of sunlight. Wine is sensitive to the effects of direct sunlight, and excessive exposure to UV rays can cause oxidation, resulting in spoilage.

3. Refrigerate the package for up to six weeks once the seal is broken. The bag will keep it fresh and the cardboard will keep it protected.

Tips & Warnings

• A temporary wine cellar can be made for Bag-in-Box wines in a closet or kitchen cupboard, so you don't have to use up valuable space in the refrigerator or basement.

• Room temperature wine can be chilled quickly and easily by immersing the interior bladder of wine in an ice water bath prior to serving.

References

• Search.com: Box wine
• The Wine Economist: Wine's Future: It's in the Bag (in the Box)
• Franzia: FAQ's
• Black Box Wines: Storing Black Box Wines