Amorim, a Portugal-based manufacturer of cork stoppers, and glass container manufacturer Owens-Illinois (O-I) have launched HELIX, a cork-glass wine packaging solution for still wine segment, in Europe.
HELIX, which is based on a 'twist to open' concept, is an ergonomically-designed stopper made from cork and glass bottle with an internal thread finish in the neck.
Amorim and O-I worked for around four years to create HELIX. Under a test conducted by them, wine packaged in HELIX glass bottles with cork stoppers showed no change in taste, color or aroma.
A market research conducted as a part of the development process revealed that consumers in France, the UK, the US and China had accepted the HELIX packaging for popular premium wines.
The new packaging is user friendly, re-sealable and combines all the benefits of cork and glass, including quality and sustainability. It can also be easily incorporated by wineries in their existing filling lines after minimal adjustments.
O-I European president Erik Bouts said the future of innovation is through collaboration.
"Helix is a proven example of what can be achieved for consumers and the wine trade when the world's leading companies in glass packaging and cork work together," Bouts added.
Amorim CEO and chairman Antonio Amorim said HELIX meets consumers' growing desire for sustainability and quality, while delivering the brand building and premium image packaging wineries rely upon.
"We are delighted to offer the market not only a 100% renewable, modern product, but also a solution that enhances the wine drinking experience through opening and resealing convenience," Amorim added.
