The world of wine is constantly evolving. It’s no longer confined to dusty cellars and formal dinners. Today, you can enjoy a crisp Pinot Gris while hiking a mountain trail or savor a vibrant rosé at a beach bonfire. This accessibility is largely thanks to the innovation of canned wine, and Underwood Wine has been at the forefront of this revolution. But one question lingers for many wine lovers: how much wine are you actually getting in a can of Underwood? Let’s uncork this query and delve into the delightful details.
Understanding Underwood Wine and the Canned Wine Movement
Underwood Wine, produced by Union Wine Company in Oregon, has carved out a significant niche in the canned wine market. They’ve successfully blended quality wine with convenience and affordability, making wine accessible to a broader audience. Their approach is straightforward: produce good wine, package it in a user-friendly format, and let people enjoy it without pretense.
The Rise of Canned Wine
The shift towards canned wine is driven by several factors. First, it’s incredibly convenient. Cans are lightweight, portable, and require no corkscrew. They are also perfect for single servings, reducing waste and making wine consumption more spontaneous. Second, aluminum cans are highly recyclable, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. Finally, the cost-effectiveness of canned wine makes it an attractive alternative to traditional bottles.
Underwood’s Philosophy
Underwood embraces a “wine-for-the-people” philosophy. They source grapes from reputable vineyards in Oregon and Washington, focusing on producing easy-drinking, approachable wines. By packaging their wines in cans, they remove the formality often associated with wine, making it a beverage for everyday enjoyment. This dedication to quality and accessibility has solidified Underwood’s place as a leading brand in the canned wine sector.
The Volume Question: How Much Wine is in a Can?
The primary concern for anyone considering canned wine is the quantity of wine they are getting. The industry standard can size for wine is often different than the standard soda or beer can. So, how does Underwood measure up?
Standard Can Sizes and Wine Equivalents
A standard Underwood wine can contains 375 ml (milliliters) of wine. This is a crucial point to remember. It’s not the same as a standard soda can which is often 355 ml. This 375ml volume is equivalent to half of a standard 750ml bottle of wine. Think of it as getting about 2.5 glasses of wine in each can, depending on your pour size.
Comparing Underwood to Other Canned Wines
While Underwood adheres to the common 375ml standard, it’s always wise to check the label of any canned wine you purchase. Some brands might offer smaller or larger cans. The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) regulates the permissible can sizes for wine, but variations exist. Typically, you’ll find canned wines in sizes ranging from 250ml to 500ml, but 375ml is the most prevalent.
Why 375ml?
The choice of 375ml isn’t arbitrary. It’s a practical decision that aligns with consumer preferences and industry standards. It’s a convenient single-serving size, making it ideal for individuals or couples wanting a modest amount of wine without opening an entire bottle. It also provides a good balance between portability and value.
The Benefits of Canned Wine: Beyond the Volume
Canned wine offers a plethora of advantages beyond its precise volume. From portability to sustainability, the benefits extend far beyond simply the amount of wine you receive.
Portability and Convenience
Cans are inherently more portable than glass bottles. They are lighter, less fragile, and easier to pack for outdoor activities. Imagine bringing a chilled four-pack of Underwood Pinot Noir to a picnic without the worry of breakage or the need for a corkscrew. This convenience is a major selling point for canned wine.
Environmental Friendliness
Aluminum cans are among the most recycled beverage containers in the world. They are infinitely recyclable, meaning they can be recycled repeatedly without losing quality. This significantly reduces the environmental impact compared to glass bottles, which require more energy to produce and transport. Choosing canned wine is a small but meaningful step towards sustainable consumption.
Cost-Effectiveness
Generally, canned wine offers excellent value for money. While the price per can might seem higher than a bottle of similarly priced wine, consider the reduced waste. You’re only consuming what you need, eliminating the risk of pouring half a bottle down the drain. This makes canned wine a financially savvy choice for casual wine drinkers.
Perfect Single Servings
One of the most appealing aspects of canned wine is its suitability for single servings. No more opening a bottle and feeling obligated to finish it. A can of Underwood offers the perfect amount for a relaxing evening or a quick refreshment without the commitment of a full bottle.
The Underwood Wine Experience: Taste and Quality
The quantity of wine is important, but the quality is what ultimately determines the drinking experience. Underwood has built its reputation on consistently delivering enjoyable and approachable wines.
Underwood’s Wine Styles
Underwood offers a diverse range of wines, including Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Rosé, and occasionally, limited-edition varietals. Their wines are known for their bright acidity, fresh fruit flavors, and easy-drinking style. They are designed to be enjoyed without fuss, making them perfect for casual gatherings or everyday enjoyment.
Sourcing and Production
Underwood sources its grapes from reputable vineyards in Oregon and Washington. The winemaking process is focused on preserving the natural flavors of the grapes. They use minimal intervention techniques, allowing the fruit to express itself authentically. This commitment to quality ensures that every can of Underwood delivers a consistent and satisfying wine experience.
Pairing Suggestions
Underwood wines are versatile and pair well with a wide range of foods. The Pinot Noir complements grilled salmon or roasted chicken, while the Pinot Gris is a refreshing accompaniment to seafood or salads. The Rosé is perfect for picnics and light appetizers. Experiment with different pairings to discover your own culinary favorites.
Debunking Myths About Canned Wine
Despite its growing popularity, canned wine still faces some misconceptions. It’s time to address these myths and set the record straight.
Myth: Canned Wine is Low-Quality
This is perhaps the most pervasive myth about canned wine. The truth is that many high-quality wines are now available in cans. Underwood, for example, uses the same grapes and winemaking techniques for its canned wines as it does for its bottled wines. The packaging format doesn’t dictate the quality of the wine inside.
Myth: Canned Wine Tastes Metallic
Modern aluminum cans are lined with a food-grade coating that prevents the wine from coming into direct contact with the metal. This eliminates any metallic taste. The taste of canned wine is solely determined by the quality of the wine itself.
Myth: Canned Wine is Only for Cheap Wine
While canned wine is often more affordable than bottled wine, this doesn’t mean it’s exclusively for inexpensive wines. Many premium wineries are now offering their wines in cans to cater to a wider audience and embrace the convenience and sustainability of this packaging format.
Maximizing Your Underwood Wine Experience
Now that you know the volume and benefits of Underwood canned wine, let’s explore how to get the most out of your drinking experience.
Serving Tips
Canned wine is best enjoyed chilled. Store your cans in the refrigerator for at least a few hours before serving. You can drink directly from the can, but pouring the wine into a glass allows you to appreciate its aroma and appearance fully.
Storage Recommendations
Canned wine should be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. While aluminum cans are durable, extreme temperatures can affect the wine’s quality. Proper storage ensures that your Underwood wine tastes its best when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Exploring Different Underwood Wines
Don’t limit yourself to just one Underwood wine. Explore their diverse range of varietals to discover your favorites. Each wine offers a unique flavor profile and pairs well with different foods. Expand your palate and enjoy the variety that Underwood has to offer.
In conclusion, a can of Underwood wine contains 375ml, equivalent to half a standard bottle, offering a convenient, sustainable, and enjoyable way to experience quality wine. By understanding the volume, benefits, and quality of Underwood canned wine, you can make informed choices and elevate your wine-drinking experience.
How does the volume of Underwood wine cans compare to a standard wine bottle?
Underwood wine cans typically contain 375ml of wine. A standard wine bottle, on the other hand, holds 750ml. Therefore, one can of Underwood wine is equivalent to half of a standard bottle of wine. This makes it a convenient and portable option for individuals looking to enjoy a smaller serving of wine without committing to an entire bottle.
Consider two Underwood cans as approximately equal to one standard bottle. This equivalence helps in portioning and planning your wine consumption. It also makes it easy to calculate the equivalent number of standard bottles you’re consuming when purchasing Underwood wine cans.
Why does Underwood choose to package their wine in cans?
Underwood’s decision to package their wine in cans is primarily driven by convenience and portability. Cans are lighter, more durable, and easier to transport than glass bottles, making them ideal for outdoor activities, picnics, and gatherings where glass might not be suitable or practical. This allows consumers to enjoy high-quality wine in situations where a traditional bottle would be cumbersome.
Beyond portability, cans also offer environmental benefits. They are generally more readily recycled than glass, and their lighter weight reduces transportation costs and associated carbon emissions. Underwood likely considers these sustainability factors as part of their packaging strategy, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
Does the volume of wine in Underwood cans vary depending on the wine type?
No, the standard volume of wine in Underwood cans generally does not vary depending on the wine type. Regardless of whether it’s Pinot Noir, Rosé, or Pinot Gris, Underwood typically packages its wines in 375ml cans. This consistency makes it easy for consumers to know exactly how much wine they’re getting with each can.
However, it is always a good idea to double-check the label on the can itself. While uncommon, there might occasionally be limited-edition releases or variations with slightly different volumes. Examining the packaging is the most reliable way to confirm the exact volume of wine.
Are Underwood wine cans equivalent to a “split” or “half bottle” of wine?
Yes, Underwood wine cans containing 375ml of wine are indeed equivalent to a “split” or “half bottle” of wine. These terms are often used interchangeably to describe a wine bottle that holds half the volume of a standard 750ml bottle. This makes Underwood cans a convenient pre-portioned option for individuals who want a smaller serving size.
The “split” or “half bottle” designation is useful for those looking to control their wine consumption or to sample different varieties without opening an entire bottle. Underwood cans provide the same advantage, offering a single serving that’s easy to enjoy and dispose of.
How does the cost per volume of Underwood cans compare to Underwood bottles?
The cost per volume of Underwood cans often tends to be slightly higher than the cost per volume of Underwood bottles. This is largely due to the additional packaging and processing costs associated with canning wine. While the individual can might seem less expensive, comparing the price per milliliter or ounce reveals a potentially higher cost.
However, the convenience and portability offered by Underwood cans often justify the slightly higher price point for many consumers. The ability to easily transport and enjoy a single serving of wine can be worth the premium, especially for outdoor activities or when a full bottle isn’t desired.
Are there any specific storage recommendations for Underwood wine cans?
Underwood wine cans should be stored in a cool, dark place, just like traditional wine bottles. Exposure to direct sunlight and extreme temperatures can negatively impact the wine’s flavor and quality, regardless of whether it’s packaged in a can or a bottle. Maintaining a consistent temperature is crucial for preserving the wine’s characteristics.
Before serving, Underwood wine cans can be chilled for optimal enjoyment. Placing them in the refrigerator for a short period will lower the temperature and enhance the drinking experience, particularly for white and rosé wines. Avoid freezing the cans, as this can damage the wine and potentially cause the can to burst.
Where can I find information on the alcohol content of Underwood wines in cans?
Information on the alcohol content (ABV – Alcohol By Volume) of Underwood wines in cans is clearly displayed on the can’s label. Regulatory requirements mandate that alcohol content be prominently featured, allowing consumers to make informed decisions. Look for the ABV percentage near the product description or nutritional information.
You can also often find alcohol content information on Underwood’s official website or through online wine retailers. Checking these sources can be helpful if you’re researching different Underwood wines and comparing their alcohol levels before making a purchase. Remember to consume alcohol responsibly.