Creative teams are looking for examples of new packages that provide real benefits for the environment. One recent example comes from Boho Vineyards, San Francisco, CA, which succeeds on the sustainability front by thinking "inside the box."

The winery is serving up vintage-dated Central Coast Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Merlot wines in eco-friendly 3-L bag-in-box wine casks made from unbleached, natural brown, chlorine-free kraft board containing recycled paper. The wines are being distributed by Underdog Wine Merchants, a division of The Wine Group Inc.

Several benefits result from Boho converting its glass bottles to the lighter wine casks. The carbon footprint is reduced by 55%, the package's contribution to landfill waste is decreased by 85%, and the lighter packaging reduces shipping costs.

The packaging uses soy-based inks on 95% recycled kraft paper. The new, lightweight carton features paisley swirl graphics, and the interior bags provide an oxygen barrier. The wines stay fresh for at least six weeks after opening, says Adam Richardson, Boho Vineyards Winemaker.

Suggested retail price is about $24 per container.