Wine in a can in New Zealand is here to stay! While the canned wine category is not something Kiwis are too familiar with, the category is growing. Wine in a can is now one of the fastest growing categories worldwide and New Zealand is just in the beginning stages of this global trend. While we see several companies joining the trend, JOIY, a New Zealand company specialising in producing quality wine in a can has been available in New Zealand for the past couple of years, ahead of many of its competitors that have recently appeared in the category in the past six months.

 JOIY started with just one wine, a refreshingly zesty Prosecco style sparkling wine with ripe fruit flavours and lovely balance. Then, owner and creator, Chris Archer who is an acclaimed winemaker with over 25 years’ experience in Australia and New Zealand, introduced JOIY sparkling rose and New Zealanders were hooked! However, Archer did not stop there and has just released JOIY’s four new still varietal cans including Savvy Society Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Angel Blues Hawkes Bay Chardonnay, State of Grace Hawkes Bay Pinot Gris and The Gryphon Central Otago Pinot Noir.

JOIY is offered in a 250ml slimline can, perfect for enjoying at the beach, festivals, BBQs, picnics or anywhere that a glass bottle or wine glass is not convenient or allowed. Cans are the most recycled beverage containers in the world and they substantially reduce the environmental footprint. Great to transport as they’re lightweight, unbreakable and provide superior product protection. Cans keep sunlight out and freshness in. Sustainability, environmentally friendly, convenient and downright delicious – what more could you want?

While consumers are happy to have soda or beer in a can, some feel that wine in a can may be tainted or of lesser quality. The challenge is to prove that canned wine can exceed consumer expectations, with an exceptional glass of wine re-educating the way people drink.

JOIY wine cans use patented Vinsafe wine technology to ensure ultimate quality, integrity, stability and longevity– guaranteed fresh for a minimum of 2 years and is the only packaging system guaranteed by Masters of Wine.

Barokes’ (owner of Vinsafe) marketing director, Irene Stokes, says of the technology: “Vinsafe ensures wine is canned to maintain the product's integrity [colour, taste, aroma], stability and longevity.”

“They are lighter, 100% recyclable, faster to chill, unbreakable and provide an excellent vessel for wine as there is no light strike or air influence. The cans have the patented Vinsafe liner, which prevents any contact with the aluminium and, in turn, any effect on the wine.”

While drinking direct from the can is very convenient, JOIY recommends its consumers to pour from the can into a wine glass for maximum enjoyment.

With the extension of the JOIY’s range, with the still varietal series, Archer shows consumers that it is possible to have high quality wine in a can that has a sense of place. Canned wine sales have skyrocketed in the U.S., growing 43% from June 2017 to June 2018, with all indications that this category will continue to grow. The relatively new and young, wine in a can market in New Zealand has a lot to look forward to with JOIY leading the innovation and enthusiasm!

Joiy Sparkling White

Multi-award winning, Prosecco style sparkling wine. On the palate is a gorgeous burst of ripe fruit followed by a citrus finish, creating a lovely balance that is not too sweet and not too dry.

Joiy Sparkling Rose

A lovely balance of strawberries and cream on the nose, followed by wild berries and bright red fruits. A fresh and lively bubbly wine with intense flavour and structure. Excellent natural acidity with a long dry finish on the palate.

Savvy Society Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

Vibrant fruit and hints of passionfruit are balanced with subtle fennel and basil. The palate delivers good length, weight and balance.

Angel Blues Hawkes Bay Chardonnay

Good old fashioned Chardonnay with generous fruits of peach and pear overlaid with caramelised butter and honeycomb.

State of Grace Hawkes Bay Pinot Gris

Lifted noses of rose petal, lychee and sandalwood greet the nose. The flavours cuddle with generous warmth and richness while remaining dry.

The Gryphon Central Otago Pinot Noir

Violets and cherries have leading roles with hints of thyme. The palate is typical of Central Otago with good tension and youth while maintaining a generous fruit weight.