Villa Maria, the UK’s No.1 New Zealand wine brand, is making premium wine more accessible with the launch of its award-winning Marlborough Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc in a sleek 200ml can. This marks the first time the brand has offered its iconic Sauvignon Blanc in this format – one of the biggest innovations from Villa Maria in recent years.
The launch of the stylish can follows extensive trial and testing to deliver the same exceptional quality Villa Maria is known for in a convenient, portable format. The expansion of its flagship wine into cans further cements Villa Maria’s rich history in its largest market, where it remains the leading New Zealand wine brand by both value and volume. *
“At Villa Maria, we’re always looking for new ways to bring our world-class wines to consumers,” says Sarah Szegota, Global Director of Marketing and Communications. “The demand for quality, portable options is growing, driven by changing drinking habits and a desire for flexibility. By introducing Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc in a can that is lightweight and easy to chill, we’re giving wine lovers a convenient way to enjoy refreshing New Zealand wine anytime, anywhere.”
Villa Maria’s consumer research confirms a strong appetite for premium wine in versatile formats, particularly for summer’s outdoor occasions such as barbecues and picnics. Market data also highlights that canned wine is one of the fastest-growing segments in grocery and the off-trade**. This reflects shifting consumer preferences toward quality, convenience, and sustainability.
“The strength of our brand gives us an incredible opportunity to lead in this space,” adds Szegota. “UK consumers have embraced New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, which continues to outperform the overall wine category***. By offering our signature Sauvignon Blanc in a versatile new format, we’re making it even easier to enjoy the crisp, vibrant flavours Villa Maria is famous for.”
“Our goal has always been to craft wines that capture the purity, freshness and vibrancy of New Zealand’s unique landscape,” says Villa Maria Group Winemaker David Roper. “We’ve worked hard to ensure that the same crisp, aromatic intensity that people love in our Sauvignon Blanc is perfectly preserved in this format. Whether it’s poured into a glass or enjoyed straight from the can, wine lovers can expect the same high-quality Villa Maria experience.”
Villa Maria is committed to sustainability, and this innovation reinforces the brand’s commitment to its strategy. Villa Maria cans are bottled in market, significantly reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, aluminium cans are infinitely recyclable.
Szegota says, “Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc in a can is the first of several planned innovations as Villa Maria continues to meet the needs of the modern consumer.
Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc in a can is now available in major retailers throughout the UK.
Nielsen MAT 28.12.24
**IWSR Wine Landscapes 2024 UK
*** Nielsen IQ Scan data – Off Trade, 52 weeks to 27/01/25
