a sealed plastic container for holding an alcoholic beverage such as wine includes a receptacle for containing the alcoholic beverage therein which includes a peripheral flange about the mouth of the receptacle , a biocompatible inner surface and a wall having a low gas transmissibility and a sealing membrane detachably fixed to the flange and including a biocompatible inner surface . the sealing membrane is fitted to the peripheral flange such that it can undergo displacement in the event of expansion of the contents of the container . the container including a biocompatible gas other than oxygen and the membrane seals the alcoholic beverage from contact with air .