What’s the first thing you think of when someone mentions “boxed wine?” Cheap? Low-quality? Dare I say, tacky? I recently learned that one of my favorite Italian restaurants serves boxed wine and I’ve been ordering it, drinking it, and enjoying it for a while. I wasn’t shocked in a negative way, though I was happily impressed that the wine was very good and many other restaurants may also serve unbeknownst to many.
I was recently sent some R. Muller Riesling packaged in a unique octagonal box for review. Unlike a traditional bottle, which has a problem keeping from one day to the next once opened, the riesling from Octavin Home Wine Bar’s vacuum-packed bag and spout do not allow air to come into contact with the wine. The result is a wine that has ten times the shelf life, Octavin Home Wine Bar remains fresh for at least six weeks thanks to the collapsing bag that keeps the wine sealed from oxygen.
Here’s where some important questions come into play, such as:
What serving temperature do you recommend for Octavin Home Wine Bar Wines?
For red wines, cellar temp is best, about 57º F / 14 ºC; for white wines slightly more chilled, around 52 º F/11 º C. If you want to store the whites in your refrigerator that is just fine.
How should I store Octavin Home Wine Bar wines before opening?
Since light, heat and vibration break down wine quality, keep purchased wines in a dark cool place, such as a cellar or closet, instead of a warm, well lit kitchen. A constant temperature is just as important as a cool temperature.
How much wine is in each Octavin Home Wine Bar?
Each 3.0L package contains the equivalent of four 750ml bottles. This is exactly the same wine that we often bottle in glass.
It is stated it’s the same as the wine that you bottle in glass, why is the Octavin Home Wine Bar format cheaper?
Bottles, corks, capsules and labels typically cost between $2 – $3 per bottle. The average cost of producing the Octavin Home Wine Bar is closer to $1 per package.
Where can I find the Octavin Home Wine Bar?
In the premium bottled wine section of Supermarkets and Liquor stores nationwide, if you can’t find it, request it from your local retailer!
My take: I really liked the look of the box, the shape was unique and different, I was eager to taste the wine. The spout has a twist-turn valve, make sure you’re ready for the wine when you turn, it comes out fast. The nose was of sweet fruit, and upon first sip I tasted peaches that finished with a nice zing. My husband and I enjoyed it. The 3 liter box retails for about $24, equivalent to 4 750ml bottles, that’s only $5/bottle, well worth it. At our last gathering, I surprised many by saying the wine served was from a a box. Though, like me, they were anxious to buy it again for themselves!
Product was sent for my honest opinion.
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