Two weeks ago, prior to heading out to the Bay area (of California) for the family gathering celebrating the birth (and bris) of my nephew Jonah, I received, on consecutive days, those pesky notes from a delivery company that they was attempting to deliver a package when I was not home to accept it.  I hadn’t ordered anything but speculated that it might have been a wine sample.  Sure enough I was eventually home to accept said package and it contained the familiar “contains alcoholic beverage – must be signed by adult…” label on the outside.  I am generally made aware of pending wine sample deliveries, but this one had no advance warning.  I try to open these packages quickly (even if I am unable to get to tasting them right away) so I can put them in proper storage – especially this time of year & even more so when a wine has been on the back of a truck for consecutive days.  So I opened the package and low and behold I had just been sent two 3-liter packages of boxed wine.

I’ve recently spoken about alternative packaging, in particular as it relates to its smaller carbon footprint.  Also of special note in particular for boxed wine is its ability to remain fresh longer, given its  container.  It is actually a “bag-in-a-box”, and as wine is dispensed (from its cool spout) it releases wine but does not allow that wine to be replaced with air.  The bag simply contracts, keeping oxygen out and preventing any possible oxidizing of the wine.  Instructions on the side of the box tell the consumer that after opened the wine should be stored in a vertical position in a cool and dry place.  They say it should be consumed within 2 weeks, but I’d bet it will be “alive” for even longer – though it will likely lose some of its freshness.

This box is easily transported and great for taking to BYO parties, bar-b-Q’s or picnics.  It is recyclable, presents great value and while some might think me crazy for saying, damn fun to pour.  It reminded me of an old beer ball or other fun mini-keg gadget I used back in college.

But the bottom line is, how was the wine???

I must say, not bad.  not bad at all.

I have been hearing/reading positive things about Chardonnay from Central Valley Chile.  Hearing of their acidity, something I find imperative for chardonnay to be decent, especially in the summertime when I am looking for crisp refreshing wines rather than the heartier wines of winter.

Well, the 2008 Andes Peaks select Chardonnay (from box) has a clear straw color with a slight green tint.  It has bready and steely aromas, with light citrus notes. Flavors of tart green apple, lemon zest and hints of spice and melon were complimented by a refreshing bracing acidity and medium + finish.

Now I titled this post “part I” as I plan on re-tasting this wine several times over the next few weeks and look forward to reporting my findings.  I will also report on the 2008 Andes Peak Cabernet Sauvignon box wine.  But until then…

Happy bag-in-box Wine Tasting!

WTG