Beverage Packing System

Abstract

A beverage packaging system that includes a plurality of beverage containers and a beverage container package. The plurality of beverage containers each includes a receptacle, a first beverage portion and a sealing lid. The first beverage portion is placed in the receptacle. The sealing lid releasably engages the receptacle to retain the first beverage portion in the receptacle. The beverage container package includes a first side panel, a second side panel, a top panel and a first intermediate panel. The top panel extends between the first side panel and the second side panel. The first intermediate panel extends between the first side panel and the second side panel. The first intermediate panel is in a spaced-apart relationship with respect to the top panel. The first intermediate panel has a plurality of first apertures formed therein. Each of the first apertures is adapted to receive one of the beverage containers.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to beverage packages and methods of packaging and preparing beverages. More particularly, the invention relates to mixes that are distributed in containers that may be used for preparing and consuming beverages.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is possible to completely prepare some beverages during the manufacturing process such that the beverages are ready to consume. However, other beverages exhibit enhanced characteristics if the ingredients are mixed together proximate to when the beverages will be consumed.

For example, maintaining the ingredients separate may prevent the ingredients from interacting with each other and thereby spoiling taste and freshness. Another benefit of mixing the ingredients together proximate to when the beverage is to be consumed is that this process enables the ingredients to be mixed together in proportions that are preferred by the person who will be consuming the beverage.

The ingredients for mixed drinks are generally classified as either alcohol or non-alcohol. These components are typically distributed separately such that the consumer may select one or more alcoholic components for use with one or more non-alcoholic components to prepare the mixed drink.

Preparing an alcoholic or non-alcoholic mixed drink can be a time-consuming, messy and inconvenient process when a number of containers, ingredients and implements are used. It may also be difficult to accurately mix each of the ingredients such that the mixed drink has a flavor that is typically associated with that particular mixed drink. Additionally, liquid may be easily spilled while being poured, which then requires the spilled liquids to be cleaned up.

It is customary to serve different types of drinks in glasses having different shapes. For example, glasses used to serve daiquiris are typically shaped differently than glasses used to serve margaritas. As such, it is typically necessary to maintain a stock of glasses that are suited for use in conjunction with a variety of mixed drinks.

Various products have been developed that include two compartments that maintain the beverage components separate prior to consumption. In certain configurations, the barrier between the two compartments is severed to cause the components to be mixed together.

Another configuration includes an upper chamber may be discarded so that the consumer may drink out of the lower chamber is discussed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,779,372 and 4,634,004. Yet another configuration uses a straw that is inserted into the upper part of the container, such as is discussed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,408,690 and 5,772,017.

Methods of packaging and preparing mixed drinks such as the dual-chambered containers described above suffer a number of drawbacks, such as the fact that the packaging tends to be complex, expensive, and typically not reusable or recyclable. In addition, the consumer's choice of mixing ingredients is limited by the combinations that are packaged and sold together.

Additionally, when a dual-chambered container is used, the contents are not guaranteed to mix together adequately when the ingredient in the upper chamber merely falls down into the liquid in the lower chamber. When the upper chamber is not removable, the opening in the top of the container may be too small to add ice cubes or crushed ice, which can contribute substantially to the appeal of the mixed drink.

Thus, there is a need for a method of packaging and preparing a mixed drink that offers simplicity, low expense, ease of use, a minimum of implements for preparing the drink, and flexibility and appeal to the consumer who wishes to add his or her preferred mixing base, such as liquor or a non-alcoholic beverage.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An embodiment of the invention is directed to a beverage packaging system that includes a plurality of beverage containers and a beverage container package. The plurality of beverage containers each include a receptacle, a first beverage portion and a sealing lid. The first beverage portion is placed in the receptacle. The sealing lid releasably engages the receptacle to retain the first beverage portion in the receptacle.

The beverage container package includes a first side panel, a second side panel, a top panel and a first intermediate panel. The top panel extends between the first side panel and the second side panel. The first intermediate panel extends between the first side panel and the second side panel.

The first intermediate panel is in a spaced-apart relationship with respect to the top panel. The first intermediate panel has a plurality of first apertures formed therein. Each of the first apertures is adapted to receive one of the beverage containers.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a beverage packaging system that includes a plurality of beverage containers and a beverage container package. The plurality of beverage containers each include a receptacle, a first beverage portion and a sealing lid. The first beverage portion is placed in the receptacle. The sealing lid releasably engages the receptacle to retain the first beverage portion therein.

The beverage container package includes a first side panel, a second side panel, a top panel, a bottom panel and an intermediate panel. The top panel extends between the first side panel and the second side panel. The bottom panel extends between the first side panel and the second side panel. The intermediate panel extends between the first side panel and the second side panel intermediate the top panel and the bottom panel. The intermediate panel has a plurality of apertures formed therein. Each of the apertures is adapted to receive one of the beverage containers.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a method of packaging beverages. A plurality of beverage containers is provided. Each of the beverage containers includes a receptacle, a first beverage portion and a sealing lid. The first beverage portion is placed in the receptacle. The sealing lid releasably engages the receptacle to retain the first beverage portion in the receptacle.

A beverage container package is provided that includes a first side panel, a second side panel, a top panel and a first intermediate panel. The first side panel and the second side panel each have an upper edge and a lower edge. The top panel extends between the first side panel and the second side panel. The first intermediate panel extends between the first side panel and the second side panel. The first intermediate panel is in a spaced-apart relationship with respect to the top panel. The first intermediate panel has a plurality of first apertures formed therein.

One of the plurality of beverage containers is placed in each of the first apertures. Each of the plurality of beverage containers is supported so that lower edges of the beverage containers are above the lower edges of the first and second side panels and upper edges of the beverage containers are below the upper edges of the first and second side panels.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of embodiments and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments and together with the description serve to explain principles of embodiments. Other embodiments and many of the intended advantages of embodiments will be readily appreciated as they become better understood by reference to the following detailed description. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily to scale relative to each other. Like reference numerals designate corresponding similar parts.

FIG. 1 is a side view of a beverage container for use in conjunction with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a side view of a beverage container for use in conjunction with another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a top view of a sealing device for use in conjunction with the beverage container.

FIG. 4 is a side view of removing the sealing device from the beverage container.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a pre-packaged beverage container according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a beverage container package that contains a plurality of the pre-packaged beverage containers, which are illustrated in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a pre-packaged beverage container according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a beverage container package that contains a plurality of the pre-packaged beverage containers, which are illustrated in FIG. 7, where the beverage container package includes a handle portion that is positioned in a retracted position.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a packaging system with the handle portion in an extended position.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a pre-packaged beverage container according to yet another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a beverage container package that contains a plurality of the pre-packaged beverage containers, which are illustrated in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alternative beverage container package for use in conjunction with the pre-packaged beverage container of FIG. 10.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

An embodiment of the invention is directed to a beverage preparation system that generally includes a beverage container 10, a beverage mix and a beverage container package 14, as illustrated in the figures.

The beverage preparation system thereby enables a variety of beverages to be freshly prepared proximate to when it is desired to consume the beverage. The beverage preparation system also enables the beverages to be served in the beverage container in which the product is distributed.

The beverage container 10 may take a variety of forms such as the beverage containers illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. Each of the beverage containers 10 includes a receptacle region in which the beverage mix may be packaged and distributed and in which the beverage prepared from the beverage mix may be consumed.

An example of one suitable configuration for the beverage container 10 is in the shape of a margarita glass, which is illustrated in FIG. 1. Another example of a suitable configuration for the beverage container 10 is in the shape of a cocktail glass, which is illustrated in FIG. 2.

The beverage container 10 may be fabricated from a variety of materials using the concepts of the invention. Examples of two such suitable materials are glass and plastic. While the figures illustrate that the beverage containers 10 are formed from a transparent material, it is possible to fabricate the beverage containers 10 that are not transparent. It is also possible to place designs, logos and/or trademarks on the beverage containers 10.

The beverage container 10 may be formed with a volume that is selected based upon a variety of factors. In certain embodiments, when the beverage container 10 is used in conjunction with preparing margaritas, the volume may be about 230 milliliters. In certain embodiments, when the beverage container 10 is used in conjunction with preparing martinis, the volume may be about 180 milliliters.

To enable the packaging system to be used in conjunction with a variety of different beverage containers, the beverage containers may be formed with a height that is approximately equal. The height of the beverage container may be between about 100 millimeters and about 200 millimeters. In certain embodiments, the height of the beverage container is between about 140 millimeters and about 160 millimeters.

The beverage containers may also be formed with an upper diameter that is approximately equal. The upper diameter of the beverage container may be between about 50 millimeters and about 150 millimeters. In certain embodiments, the upper diameter of the beverage container is between about 100 millimeters and about 130 millimeters.

The beverage container 10 may include at least one indicia 18 that indicates the volume of the additional ingredient(s) that are intended to be added to the beverage container 10 when preparing the beverage. Such indicia 18 should be sufficiently visible so that the consumer can readily appreciate the volume of the additional component that should be added to the beverage container 10. On the other hand, the indicia 18 should be configured to not negatively impact the aesthetic qualities of the beverage container 10.

In one such embodiment, the indicia 18 is a line that extends at least partially around the beverage container 10. In another embodiment, the indicia 18 is the name of the product that is to be added to the beverage container 10. Depending on the size of the beverage container 10, the name of the product may be repeated several times around the beverage container 10.

In one embodiment, the non-alcoholic portion of the beverage may be packaged in the beverage container 10 and the alcoholic portion of the beverage may be added to the beverage container 10 when it is desired to consume the beverage.

In another embodiment, where it is desired to prevent the components used in preparing the beverage from mixing together too much such that when the beverage is consumed, the flavors of the components are more readily ascertainable, one of the components may be packaged separately from the other components in the beverage container 10.

It is possible for the components that are not distributed mixed in the beverage container 10 to also be packaged in the beverage packing system 14 such that when the beverage packing system 14 is purchased, the consumer has all of the components that are needed to prepare the beverage. Alternatively, the consumer may be expected to separately purchase one of more of the components that are needed to prepare the beverage.

In certain embodiments where the alcohol is intended to be used in preparing the beverage, the beverage container 10 may include a plurality of indicia at different heights that may be used to prepare alcoholic beverages having differing concentrations of alcohol.

An upper edge 19 of the beverage container 10 may have a variety of shapes using the concepts of the invention. However, an upper surface of the upper edge may be generally planar to facilitate attaching a sealing lid 20, which is illustrated in FIG. 3, to the beverage container 10.

The sealing lid 20 may be fabricated from a variety of materials using the concepts of the invention. In one such configuration, the sealing lid 20 is fabricated from a plastic or foil-backed material. A tab 22 may extend from an edge of the sealing lid 20. The tab 22 may be used to assist with removing the sealing lid 20 from the beverage container 10, such as is illustrated in FIG. 4.

The sealing lid 20 may be attached to the upper surface of the beverage container 10 during the manufacturing process. The sealing lid 20 should resist separation from the beverage container 10 until the consumer decides to remove the sealing lid 20 so that the beverage mix does not leak.

It is also possible to fabricate the seal between the sealing lid 20 and the beverage container 10 to be tamper-evident such that consumers can be assured of the purity of the beverage mix. A variety of techniques may be used to create the tamper-evident seal.

One suitable technique for attaching the sealing lid 20 to the beverage container 10 is an adhesive. Another technique that may be used to attach the sealing lid 20 to the beverage container 10 is a thread mechanism that includes mating thread surfaces on the sealing lid 20 and the beverage container.

The invention also includes a beverage container package 14 that enables a plurality of the beverage containers 10 to be marketed as a unit. The beverage container package 14 thereby enhances the ability to handle the multiple beverage containers 10 to thereby reduce the potential of the beverage containers being broken or the beverage mix being spilled.

In certain embodiments, the beverage container package 14 is suited for use in conjunction with the beverage container 10 that is conventionally referred to as a margarita glass, which is illustrated in FIG. 5. The beverage container package 14 only covers a portion of each of the beverage container 10, as illustrated in FIG. 6.

In this configuration, the beverage container package 14 includes a top panel 50, a bottom panel 52 and a pair of side panels 54 positioned on at least two sides of the top panel 50 and the bottom panel 52 to thereby interconnect the top panel 50 and the bottom panel 52.

The top panel 50 may be substantially continuous, as illustrated in FIG. 6. The top panel 50 thereby enables sets of the beverage containers to be stacked on top of each other such as for display in a retail store or storage after purchase.

The bottom panel 52 includes a plurality of apertures 60. Each of the apertures 60 has a diameter that is smaller than a maximum diameter of the beverage container 10. The diameter of each of the apertures 60 may also be greater than a diameter of a base portion of the beverage container 10.

The beverage container package 14 should have sufficient rigidity to resist bending when the device is lifted. The beverage container package 14 should also have sufficient structural integrity so that the top panel 50 resists breakage when multiple beverage container packages 14 are stacked upon each other.

The beverage container package 14 may be formed from a sheet of material that is folded to define the top panel 50, the bottom panel 52 and the side panels 54. In other embodiments at least one of the top panel 50, the bottom panel 52 and the side panels 54 are formed separately and then attached to each other to fabricate the beverage container package 14.

A variety of materials may be used to fabricate the beverage container package 14 depending upon factors such as the shape and size of the beverage containers 10. In one such configuration, cardboard is used to fabricate the beverage container package 14. The cardboard may be fabricated with or without corrugations.

In another configuration of the beverage container package 114 that is suited for use in conjunction with the beverage container 110 that is conventionally referred to as a cocktail glass and which is illustrated in FIG. 7, the beverage container package 114 includes a top panel 150, a bottom panel 152 and a pair of side panels 154 positioned on at least two sides of the top panel 150 and the bottom panel 152 to thereby interconnect the top panel 150 and the bottom panel 152, as illustrated in FIG. 8.

The configuration of the beverage container package 114 may also include an intermediate panel 60 that is positioned between the top panel 150 and the bottom panel 152 and which extends between the side panels 154. While not illustrated, the intermediate panel 160 includes a plurality of apertures that are similar to the apertures 60 formed in the beverage container package 14 illustrated in FIG. 6.

The side panels 154 may be formed with a height that is greater than a height of the beverage container 110 and the intermediate panel 160 may be positioned to support the lower surface of the beverage container 110 above lower edges of the side panels 154 and above the bottom panel 152. This configuration positions the upper surface of the beverage container 110 below upper edges of the side panels 154 and below the top panel 150.

Using this configuration minimizes that forces placed on the beverage container package 114 during the stacking process will be transferred to the beverage containers 110 that are stored in the beverage container package 114 to thereby reduce the potential of the beverage containers 110 being damaged during the shipping and distribution process.

In other embodiments, the lower surface of the beverage container 110 is in contact with the bottom panel 152 and the upper surface of the beverage container 110 is in contact with the top panel 150. Using this configuration, the beverage container and the beverage container package 114 contribute to support when the packages are placed in a stacked configuration.

This configuration of the beverage container package 114 substantially encloses a plurality of beverage containers 110. While it is illustrated that opposite ends of the beverage container package 114 are open, it is possible to include end panels on the beverage container package 114.

To enhance the ability to carry the beverage container package 114, at least one handle 170 is provided on the beverage container package 114. The at least one handle 170 may be cut from the same material that is used to fabricate the other portions of the beverage container package 114.

The at least one handle 170 may be positioned in a retracted position, which is illustrated in FIG. 8. When in the retracted position, the at least one handle 170 may be substantially aligned with the outer surface of the beverage container package 114.

The at least one handle 170 may be moved to the extended position, which is illustrated in FIG. 9. When the at least one handle 170 is in the extended position, an opening 172 is provided through which a person can extend a portion of his/her hand to grasp the handle 170.

In another configuration of the beverage container package 214 that is suited for use in conjunction with the beverage container 210 that is conventionally referred to as a pint glass and which is illustrated in FIG. 10, the beverage container package 214 includes a top panel 250, a bottom panel 252 and a pair of side panels 254 positioned on at least two sides of the top panel 250 and the bottom panel 252 to thereby interconnect the top panel 250 and the bottom panel 252, as illustrated in FIG. 11.

This configuration of the beverage container package 214 is particularly suited for use in conjunction with the beverage container 10 having the shape of a beverage container having a generally cylindrical shape or a generally cylindrical but tapered shape where a diameter of the upper end is larger than a diameter at the lower end.

The configuration of the beverage container package 214 may also include an intermediate panel 260 that is positioned between the top panel 250 and the bottom panel 252 and which extends between the side panels 254.

The intermediate panel 260 includes a plurality of apertures 270 that are similar to the apertures 60 formed in the beverage container package 14 illustrated in FIG. 6. In particular, the apertures 270 have a shape and size that generally conforms to a shape and size of the beverage container 210 proximate to where the intermediate panel 260 is positioned.

This configuration of the beverage container package 214 substantially encloses a plurality of beverage containers 210. While it is illustrated that opposite ends of the beverage container package 214 are open, it is possible to include end panels on the beverage container package 214.

To enhance the ability to carry the beverage container package 14, at least one aperture 280 may be provided in the beverage container package 214. While it is illustrated that the at least one aperture 280 is formed in the top panel 250, it is possible for the at least one aperture 280 to be formed in the bottom panel 252 or the side panels 254.

The at least one aperture 280 may have a diameter that is sufficiently large so that a person can extend his/her finger into the aperture 280 when it is desired to lift the beverage container package 214.

Another configuration of the beverage container package 314 is illustrated in FIG. 12. This configuration is similar to the beverage container package 214 illustrated in FIG. 11 except that instead of the beverage containers 210 being placed in two rows that are adjacent to each other, the beverage containers 310 are placed into two rows that are stacked upon each other.

The packaging system may include at least one cutout 316 on a surface thereof. In certain embodiments, at least one of the side panels 354 or the top panel 350 may include the at least one cutout 316 to enable potential customers to see the color of the beverage packaged in the beverage container 310.

The at least one cutout 316 can be formed with a shape that generally conforms to the shape of the beverage container 310 to enhance the ability to view the contents of the beverage container 310. In certain embodiments, at least one of a height and a width of the at least one cutout 316 are less than the height and the width of the beverage container 310. The at least one cutout should be formed with a height and a width and be positioned on the beverage container 310 so not as to negatively impact the structural integrity of the beverage container 310.

A method of packaging a mixed drink according to the present invention thus includes pre-packaging a flavorful and/or colorful, pre-measured ingredient or mixture of ingredients into a beverage container that is marketed and sold with extra head-space for the consumer to add alcohol, ice or other ingredients if desired. The beverage container is even suitable for use as a drinking vessel.

The invention therefore provides a method of packaging the ingredients that are desired for a mixed drink, to which ice may be added. Alternatively, the method of packaging provides all the ingredients for making a mixed drink recipe except for alcohol, which may be added as desired by the preparer or consumer.

The package may be marked and/or labeled to indicate that additional ingredients may be added to the contents, such as ice or alcohol, and optionally some other beverage and/or garnish, to customize the drink according to the consumer's taste.

Because the mixture can be combined and consumed, the number of containers and implements that are needed to make the mixed drink is substantially reduced, thus minimizing the time, effort and inconvenience that are associated with prior art methods of packaging the ingredients for mixed beverages. The ease and enjoyment of selecting, preparing, serving and consuming a mixed drink that is packaged according to the inventive method are thereby enhanced.

When it is desired to consume the beverage, the partially filled beverage container 10 is opened by removing the sealing lid 20. Whatever additional components desired by the consumer are then added to the beverage container 10 and the components are mixed together to provide the finished beverage. The consumer may drink directly out of the beverage container 10.

The invention thereby eliminates the need for separate implements to be used for measuring the components used in preparing the beverage. Thus, the process of preparing the beverage is greatly simplified, because the storage, transport, set-up and clean-up of additional ingredients, containers and implements are virtually eliminated.

Examples of beverages that may be prepared using the invention include Long Island ice tea, cosmopolitan, strawberry daiquiri, mojito, appletini, classic margarita, whiskey sour, blood orange martini, peach bellini and pina colada.

Depending on the beverage that is desired to be prepared, different ingredients may be used to prepare the beverage mix. For example, when the beverage mix is intended to be used in preparing margaritas, the beverage mix may include water, at least one sweetener and at least one flavoring agent.

A variety of compositions may be used for the at least one sweetener. The compositions may be naturally or artificially derived. An example of compositions that may be used as the at least one sweetener include sugar and aspartame.

A variety of compositions may be used for the at least one flavoring agent. The compositions may be naturally or artificially derived. An example of compositions that may be used as the at least one flavoring agent include citric acid and lemon juice concentrates.

The beverage mix may also include at least one coloring agent. The coloring agent may be naturally derived or artificially derived. An example of one such suitable coloring agent is FD&C blue #1.

Depending on the ingredients used in fabricating the beverage mix and the anticipated length of time between when the beverage mix is prepared and consumed, it may be desirable to add at least one preservative to the beverage mix. Examples of suitable preservatives include sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate.

Depending on the type of beverage being prepared, it is possible for additional ingredients to be added to the beverage container prior to the beverage being consumed. Examples of the additional ingredients include ice cubes/chips, olives and slices of fruit.

Such additional ingredients may be distributed with the invention. For example, in certain embodiments, a container of olives is distributed with the product. The container of olives may be sufficiently large so that the container contains at least one olive that may be placed in each of the beverage container. However, the container may be sufficiently small so that an excess amount of olives is not included in the package.

An example of another product that may be distributed with the invention is ground salt or sugar that is intended to be placed on the rim of the glass when the beverage is prepared for consumption.

The invention may also include at least one additional container (not shown) of alcohol that may be used in conjunction with the beverage mix contained in the beverage container 10 when preparing the beverage. In certain embodiments, the at least one additional container attached to the beverage container package. In other embodiments, the at least one additional container is placed adjacent to or proximate

In the preceding detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In this regard, directional terminology, such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” “leading,” “trailing,” etc., is used with reference to the orientation of the Figure(s) being described. Because components of embodiments can be positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional terminology is used for purposes of illustration and is in no way limiting. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The preceding detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

It is contemplated that features disclosed in this application, as well as those described in the above applications incorporated by reference, can be mixed and matched to suit particular circumstances. Various other modifications and changes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill.

Claims

1. A beverage packaging system comprising: a plurality of beverage containers that each comprise: a receptacle;a first beverage portion placed in the receptacle; anda sealing lid that releasably engages the receptacle to retain the first beverage portion in the receptacle; anda beverage container package comprising: a first side panel;a second side panel;a top panel that extends between the first side panel and the second side panel; anda first intermediate panel that extends between the first side panel and the second side panel, wherein the first intermediate panel is in a spaced-apart relationship with respect to the top panel, wherein the first intermediate panel has a plurality of first apertures formed therein and wherein each of the first apertures is adapted to receive one of the beverage containers.

2. The beverage packaging system of claim 1, wherein each of the beverage containers have a maximum diameter, wherein the plurality of apertures each have a diameter that is less than the maximum diameter.

3. The beverage packaging system of claim 1, wherein the intermediate panel supports the plurality of beverage containers so that upper edges of the plurality of beverage containers are lower than upper edges of the first side panel and the second side panel and wherein lower edges of the plurality of beverage containers are higher than lower edges of the first side panel and the second side panel.

4. The beverage packaging system of claim 1, wherein the beverage container package further comprises a handle operably attached hereto.

5. The beverage packaging system of claim 1, and further comprising a bottom panel that is attached to the first side panel and the second side panel so that the first intermediate panel is between the top panel and the bottom panel.

6. The beverage packing system of claim 1, and further comprising a second intermediate panel that extends between the first side panel and the second side panel, wherein the second intermediate panel is in a spaced-apart relationship with respect to the top panel and the first intermediate panel, wherein the second intermediate panel has a plurality of second apertures formed therein and wherein each of the second apertures is adapted to receive one of the beverage containers so that the beverage packing system includes two rows of beverage containers.

7. The beverage packing system of claim 6, and further comprising: a first bottom wall that extends between the first side panel and the second side panel between the first intermediate panel and the second intermediate panel; anda second bottom wall that extends between the first side panel and the second side panel on a side of the second intermediate panel that is opposite the first intermediate panel.

8. The beverage packing system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first side panel and the second side panel have an opening formed therein, wherein the opening has a height and a width and wherein at least one of the opening height is less than a height of the beverage container and the opening width is less than a width of the beverage container.

9. The beverage packaging system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of beverage containers have at least one of: a substantially equal height;a substantially equal width; anda similar shape.

10. The beverage packaging system of claim 1, and further comprising indicia on the receptacle to indicate a combined volume of the first beverage portion and a second beverage portion that are placed in the receptacle.

11. The beverage packaging system of claim 10, wherein the first beverage portion comprises at least one non-alcoholic liquid and the second beverage portion comprises at least one alcoholic liquid.

12. A beverage packaging system comprising: a plurality of beverage containers that each comprise: a receptacle;a first beverage portion placed in the receptacle; anda sealing lid that releasably engages the receptacle to retain the first beverage portion therein; anda beverage container package comprising: a first side panel;a second side panel;a top panel that extends between the first side panel and the second side panel;a bottom panel that extends between the first side panel and the second side panel; andan intermediate panel that extends between the first side panel and the second side panel intermediate the top panel and the bottom panel, wherein the intermediate panel has a plurality of apertures formed therein, wherein each of the apertures is adapted to receive one of the beverage containers.

13. The beverage packaging system of claim 12, wherein each of the beverage containers have a maximum diameter, wherein the plurality of apertures each have a diameter that is less than the maximum diameter.

14. The beverage packaging system of claim 12, wherein the intermediate panel supports the plurality of beverage containers so that upper edges of the plurality of beverage containers are lower than upper edges of the first side panel and the second side panel and wherein lower edges of the plurality of beverage containers are higher than lower edges of the first side panel and the second side panel.

15. The beverage packaging system of claim 12, wherein the beverage container package further comprises a handle operably attached hereto.

16. The beverage packing system of claim 12, and further comprising a second intermediate panel that extends between the first side panel and the second side panel, wherein the second intermediate panel is in a spaced-apart relationship with respect to the top panel and the first intermediate panel, wherein the second intermediate panel has a plurality of second apertures formed therein and wherein each of the second apertures is adapted to receive one of the beverage containers so that the beverage packing system includes two rows of beverage containers.

17. The beverage packing system of claim 16, and further comprising: a first bottom wall that extends between the first side panel and the second side panel between the first intermediate panel and the second intermediate panel; anda second bottom wall that extends between the first side panel and the second side panel on a side of the second intermediate panel that is opposite the first intermediate panel.

18. The beverage packaging system of claim 12, and further comprising indicia on the receptacle to indicate a combined volume of the first beverage portion and a second beverage portion that are placed in the receptacle, wherein the first beverage portion comprises at least one non-alcoholic liquid and the second beverage portion comprises at least one alcoholic liquid.

19. A method of packaging beverages comprising: providing a plurality of beverage containers that each comprise a receptacle, a first beverage portion and a sealing lid, wherein the first beverage portion is placed in the receptacle and wherein the sealing lid releasably engages the receptacle to retain the first beverage portion in the receptacle;providing a beverage container package that comprises a first side panel, a second side panel, a top panel and a first intermediate panel, wherein the first side panel and the second side panel each have an upper edge and a lower edge, wherein the top panel extends between the first side panel and the second side panel, wherein the first intermediate panel extends between the first side panel and the second side panel, wherein the first intermediate panel is in a spaced-apart relationship with respect to the top panel and wherein the first intermediate panel has a plurality of first apertures formed therein;positioning one of the plurality of beverage containers in each of the first apertures; andsupporting each of the plurality of beverage containers so that lower edges of the beverage containers are above the lower edges of the first and second side panels and upper edges of the beverage containers are below the upper edges of the first and second side panels.

20. The method of claim 19, and further comprising: attaching a second intermediate panel to the first side panel and the second side panel so that the second intermediate panel is in a spaced-apart relationship with respect to the top panel and the first intermediate panel, wherein the second intermediate panel has a plurality of second apertures formed therein;attaching a first bottom wall to the first side panel and the second side panel between the first intermediate panel and the second intermediate panel;attaching a second bottom wall to the first side panel and the second side panel on a side of the second intermediate panel that is opposite the first intermediate panel; andpositioning one of the plurality of beverage containers in each of the second apertures.