Now that having a libation in the park is legal here in Toronto, we thought it only timely to share both our thoughts on canned wine, a few recommendations, and a whitty segment we did on the daytime television show called The Social.
Scroll down to learn more about the canned wines we shared on this segment.
The Business of Canned Wine
In recent years, the wine industry has seen a significant shift in consumer preferences, and a new trend has emerged: canned wine. Once perceived as a novelty, canned wine has now evolved into a booming sector of the beverage market, appealing to a diverse audience seeking convenience, sustainability, and innovative experiences. In this blog post, we'll dive into the canned wine industry, exploring its growth, advantages, and the factors driving its success.
The Origins of Canned Wine
Canned wine is not an entirely new concept; it made its first appearance in the market in the early 2000s. However, it wasn't until the last decade that the canned wine industry experienced a meteoric rise in popularity. Driven by the success of canned craft beer and the growing preference for portable, single-serve beverages, winemakers and entrepreneurs saw an opportunity to disrupt the traditional wine packaging paradigm.
Growth and Market Trends
The growth of the canned wine industry has been nothing short of remarkable. What started as a niche product now accounts for a significant portion of the wine market share. Today, the canned wine market is worth $241 Million USD, and is projected to value $700 Million USD by 2030.
Advantages of Canned Wine
Convenience: Canned wine provides the ultimate convenience factor for consumers. Its lightweight and portable design make it ideal for outdoor activities, picnics, concerts, and other events where glass bottles would be impractical or prohibited.
Sustainability: Aluminum cans have a lower carbon footprint than glass bottles, and they are more easily recyclable. As environmental consciousness grows among consumers, canned wine's eco-friendly appeal becomes a strong selling point.
Freshness: Modern canning technology ensures that the wine maintains its freshness and taste, protecting it from harmful light and oxygen exposure.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite its rapid growth, the canned wine industry faces a few challenges. The perception of canned wine being of lower quality than bottled wine still persists among some consumers. Additionally, some traditional wine enthusiasts believe that canned wine lacks the elegance and sophistication associated with wine culture.
However, as the industry continues to evolve and gain acceptance, it's likely that these misconceptions will fade away. Furthermore, innovative branding and marketing strategies, along with the introduction of premium canned wine offerings, are helping change perceptions and elevate the industry.
The canned wine industry is here to stay, reshaping the way people consume and perceive wine. With its undeniable advantages of convenience, sustainability, and a growing focus on quality, canned wine has successfully tapped into the desires of modern consumers. As the industry continues to mature and adapt, we can expect even more exciting developments and offerings in the world of canned wine. So, whether you're a wine enthusiast or someone looking for a convenient and eco-friendly drinking experience, it's time to embrace the trend and raise a can to the future of wine. Cheers!
The Wines Shown on The Social
Between The Lines Winery, Ontario
I always say that rosé is a double duty summer wine. You can chill it and turn it into a refreshing drink on a hot day, and you can pair it with food of all kinds given its structure (tannin, fruit profile, acidity, etc).
The BTL Pink checks all the boxes when looking for a crowd pleasing pink sipper. It is a charmat method (sparkling) rosé that really is delightful.
Aromas of pear, strawberry, rhubarb, and an effervescent palate where delicate bubbles dance on your tongue.
Fun fact about Between the Lines winery, they were the first winery to put VQA wine in a can!
This wine can be purchased from the winery directly, and selected LCBO stores in Ontario.
Amulet Estate, California
Here, we’ve got another rosé, but a still one.
One of the things I like about this rosé wine is that it was created with summer days in the park in mind. Moreover, it’s light, fun, doesn’t take itself too seriously, and is delicious.
This wine has got aromas of white flowers, strawberry and grapefruit, and reminds me of a summer citrus salad!
On the palate, exotic citrus and ginger sing.
This wine can be purchased here.
Soto Sake, Japan
Now, this is a real treat. If you want to change things up in your canned consumption, here is a sake you should add to your shopping list.
The Soto Sake does not miss a beat for my sake drinkers.
Aromas of pomme fruits, florals with a slight nutty character, and on the palate, a delicate balance of umami, cucumber, and fruit.
The Soto Sake is also natural, and gluten free.
This Sake can be purchased here.
Legends Estate, Ontario
Our last expression of canned wine was both a red and a white wine from Legends Estate Winery, which they call Farm to Table.
Both wines are vegan, and are made with minimal intervention from the winemaker. It is important to note that the Legends Estate winemaking philosophy does not change just because the packaging format does.
The white is made from Gewurztraminer and Sauvignon Blanc, and both are highly aromatic grapes, which makes this so inviting as you bring it up to take a sip.
The red is made from Merlot and Malbec. Malbec is a rare grape to see grown here in Ontario so already you know you are in for a unique experience.
The Farm to Table Red possesses great dark fruit, an enticing currant profile, with a daring structure. This wine proves that canned wines are not made solely for white and rosé wines. Here, you have a canned red that is absolutely beautiful.
Legends Estate is still family owned and operated, and all of the fruit in these cans are estate grown!
These wines can be purchased from the winery here.