The rise of canned wine: convenience meets quality
In recent years, canned wine has emerged as a popular and trendy choice among wine enthusiasts, particularly younger drinkers. No longer seen as a lower-quality alternative to bottled wine, canned wine offers convenience, variety, and surprisingly high quality. This blog post delves into the reasons behind the growing popularity of canned wines, explores their quality and variety, and examines why they are becoming a preferred choice for many.
The convenience factor
One of the most significant advantages of canned wine is its convenience. Canned wines are portable, easy to store, and perfect for various occasions where traditional bottles might be impractical.
Portability: canned wines are lightweight and compact, making them ideal for outdoor activities such as picnics, beach outings, hiking, and camping.
Single-serve options: cans typically come in single-serving sizes, which eliminates the need to open a full bottle and helps with portion control.
No corkscrew needed: the pop-top can design means you don’t need a corkscrew or wine opener, making it easier to enjoy wine anywhere, anytime.
Environmental benefits: aluminum cans are more environmentally friendly than glass bottles. They are lighter to transport, reducing carbon emissions, and are highly recyclable.
Statistics: according to the wine institute, canned wine sales in the u.S. Grew by 69% between 2018 and 2019, reflecting the rising demand for this convenient packaging option.
Quality and variety
Contrary to the misconception that canned wine is of lower quality, many wineries now produce high-quality wines in cans. Advances in packaging technology and a focus on maintaining wine integrity have contributed to the improved quality of canned wines.
Quality assurance: modern canning techniques ensure that the wine’s flavor and aroma are preserved. The cans are lined with a special coating that prevents any metallic taste from affecting the wine.
Wide variety: the variety of wines available in cans has expanded significantly. From crisp whites and refreshing rosés to full-bodied reds and sparkling wines, there’s a canned wine for every palate.
Craft and premium options: many boutique wineries and established brands are entering the canned wine market, offering craft and premium wines in this convenient format.
Example: brands like underwood, by union wine co., and infinite monkey theorem have gained popularity for their high-quality canned wines that rival their bottled counterparts.
Statistics: according to nielsen, canned wine sales reached $183.6 million in the u.S. In 2020, a significant increase from previous years, demonstrating the growing acceptance of canned wines.
Appeal to younger drinkers
Canned wine has found a particular resonance with younger consumers, who value convenience, sustainability, and innovation. Several factors contribute to the popularity of canned wine among millennials and gen z drinkers.
On-the-go lifestyle: younger consumers often lead busy, on-the-go lifestyles and appreciate the portability and ease of canned wine.
Sustainability: environmental concerns are a significant consideration for younger generations. The recyclability and lower carbon footprint of aluminum cans appeal to their eco-conscious mindset.
Novelty and experimentation: younger drinkers are more open to experimenting with new formats and types of wine. The novelty of canned wine aligns with their willingness to try new and unconventional products.
Casual drinking: canned wine supports a casual and informal drinking experience, which appeals to younger consumers who might find traditional wine culture intimidating or overly formal.
Statistics: a report by wine intelligence found that 46% of u.S. Wine drinkers aged 21-34 have consumed canned wine, compared to just 16% of those aged 55 and older.
Notable brands and varieties
The canned wine market is diverse, with numerous brands offering a wide range of varieties. Here are a few notable examples:
Underwood: known for their high-quality, affordable wines, underwood offers varieties such as pinot noir, pinot gris, rosé, and even canned sparkling wine.
Infinite monkey theorem: this urban winery offers a range of canned wines, including a popular rosé and a crisp sauvignon blanc.
Barefoot: a well-known brand in the wine industry, barefoot offers canned versions of their popular moscato, rosé, and spritzer wines.
Alloy wine works: specializing in canned wines, alloy wine works offers unique varieties such as chardonnay, pinot noir, and a rosé blend.
Example: house wine offers a range of canned wines, including a canned sangria and a red blend, both of which have received positive reviews for their quality and taste.
Statistics: according to grand view research, the global canned wine market size was valued at $235.7 million in 2019 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (cagr) of 13.2% from 2020 to 2027.
Conclusion
The rise of canned wine represents a significant shift in the wine industry, driven by consumer demand for convenience, quality, and sustainability. As more wineries embrace this innovative packaging format, the variety and quality of canned wines continue to improve, making them an attractive option for wine lovers of all ages. Whether you’re heading to a picnic, hosting a casual gathering, or simply looking for a convenient way to enjoy wine, canned wines offer a delightful and practical solution that doesn’t compromise on taste or quality.