FLASQ: Wine in a Can and From the U.S.A.
Wouldn’t it be great to be able to throw a bottle of wine in your bag and not have to worry about it breaking?
The folks at FLASQ must’ve been thinking just that. Known as "Great Wine, Any Time," FLASQ is the first U.S. wine to be packaged in 100% recyclable and quick-chilling aluminum bottles.
FLASQ is a half-bottle with a wide mouth. It has an aluminum screw cap opening that allows additional aeration (or a straw!) when drinking right from the container.
There are only three wine options available right now, says Jennifer Schreiber, who has spearheaded the research, branding and product development for FLASQ Wines…Merlot, Chardonnay and a new Cuvée Blanc.
The company is targeting drinking-age Millennials and Gen Xers with active lifestyles - from hiking and tailgating to boating and golf (or less recreational activities like lounging by the pool or at the bar with friends) - who are looking for wine w modern design, convenient and portable packaging, and an environmentally-responsible product.
And the best part, the whole thing – from the wine to container – all made in America.
I love the idea that I can throw a FLASQ in my bag and have it for the next pee wee tailgate I have to attend.
Think about how much better those PTA meetings would be, too.
What is your “death row” wine?
The inability to drink wine is a great reason to not to get in a “death row” situation! This is almost an impossible question to answer without knowing what my final meal will be, so it is best to go with an exclusive wine that I have always wanted to try, Screaming Eagle. I have the feeling it will pair well with just about anything.
What region produces the best wine?
Napa Valley, specifically Howell Mountain, known for its consistently intense fruit, complexity and elegance produces the best wine. I like “big” wines.
What is the best wine and food pairing you’ve ever had?
I have been fortunate to enjoy many amazing food and wine pairings. Here are a few:
•Last week, I had Sage Infused Pappardelle with Braised Rabbit paired with 2007 Showket Vineyards Sangiovese at TraVigne in Napa. Delicious!
•Thanksgiving: 2006 Whetstone Pleasant Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir from Russian River with Muscovy Duck and cranberry reduction. •For an everyday pairing that is out of this world, I tend to favor a cold FLASQ Cuvée Blanc with Asian Fusion or Cajun cuisine. The complex and subtle sweetness of this Alexander Valley wine is the perfect partner to the heat of spicier dishes. And since I love to eat on my balcony, I don’t have to worry about breaking a glass.
What will the U.S. wine industry look like in 10 years?
In the next 10 years, I envision alternative packaging will become mainstream, and half-bottles will be more commonly available. Americans will take a more European approach to enjoying wine. It will become more acceptable to enjoy a glass of wine at lunch and children will grow up with wine at the dinner table, making the next generation of wine drinkers even that much more sophisticated