A unique new tap that will extend the shelf life of unopened bag-in-box wine by over 100 days is being launched at Brau Beviale.

ViniPlus™, designed and manufactured by Worldwide Dispensers, has a greatly improved oxygen barrier – over four times better than the standard press wine taps currently used in the market – which can protect the quality of wine after packing and increase its shelf life. On-going tests with a number of wine varietals suggest that, for certain types, ViniPlus™ can extend shelf life by as much as 140 days.

Based on a standard shelf life of 12 months, this would provide a 40% increase in product lifespan. Equally important, it will enable a greater variety of wine types to be packed in bag-in-box and offer significant logistics benefits to both wine makers and retailers.

The patented ViniPlus™ system features an ergonomically friendly front push design in combination with a low profile back end to maximise performance at optimised cost. The barrier is created by the application of a barrier film on the rear of the tap, which is pierced on first use.

As well as its shelf life properties, the new tap offers a number of consumer convenience features. A self-closing, one handed front push button enables precise control of the direction and flow of the wine and the tear away cap around the button provides effective tamper evidence. In addition, a special valve seals the outlet after every use, preventing hang up in the spout.

"The barrier properties of ViniPlus™ enable wine producers to maximise the shelf life already offered by bag-in-box, delivering both longer life and lasting quality," comments Andy Tibbs, General Manager of Worldwide Dispensers. "Significantly this opens up the format, with its logistics, consumer convenience and environmental benefits, to many more wine varieties."