Each bottle of wine upholds a heritage, in it resides the history impregnated in the neck, the lower or higher arch of the shoulder and follows the straight or curved line of the body. Moreover, the weight, color and clarity (transparency) reveal its secrets. Touching it anticipates the pleasure within. Hence, choosing the wine bottle is a process that requires taking into account the details defining the perfect bottle
The heritage
This legacy, mostly unwritten, carrying a significant cultural impact, can dictate the selection of the bottle. It is well-known that in some regions, based on these cultural preferences, the wine is identified based on the bottle. It represents all the wines from the region, making it easily recognizable. In some parts of France, Italy and other countries some winemakers have adopted a certain type of bottle, exclusively used, in order to highlight the history of the region and the sense of belonging – for example the Tokaj wine from Hungary refers to the national anthem.
The shape
A characteristic valued by the true connoisseurs, the shape defines the personality of the bottle both visually and technically. The distinct elements have am important role in the production and bottling. One of the most well-known are Bordeaux, Burgundy and Alsace (Rhein).
Bordeaux – characterized by the high shoulders starting from the neck, to retain all the sediment that can be formed inside the bottle. This bottle is mostly used for Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscat.
Burgundy – is a shape of bottle dating from XIX century, with a simple and elegant line, due to the sloping shoulders, making us think of a wedding dress. In the Burgundy bottle, usually in light yellowish color, we find most particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The light color helps the customer to easily identify the wine. Bordeaux and Burgundy bottles became famous through the French wines, becoming best sellers.
Alsace/Rhein – has a narrow shape and most often closed with a screwcap. In general used for Riesling, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Traminer.
Champenoise – a robust, imposing in thickness and weight, built to withstand pressure, being used for champagne and other sparkling wines. One of the best known bottle types, has a mouth that allows the use of a crown cap at the time of fermentation, that after is withdrawn for the final corking. The color of the bottle, champenoise green, protects the content from UV rays and makes it easily recognizable.
Atypical bottles – have a unique design, chosen to showcase the wine (the brand). Are used for types of wine coming from multiple sources or that don’t have a protected designation of origin – for example Busuioaca de Bohotin or Rara Neagra, special editions or wines with specific marketing objectives. The design is the main factor for brand positioning in the market.
The weight
In general, a quality wine is perceived by the customers according to the weight of the bottle, so a heavier one will indicate a higher quality of wine (a refined, full-bodied wine that has been aged in wooden barrels and has the potential to age). A light bottle – for example 360 grams – is not chosen for a wine that can be collected, both in terms of presentation and preservation. However, in recent years manufacturers have managed to reduce the weight of the bottle, while maintaining the defining characteristics – shoulders, diameter and depth.
The color of wine
Influences the choice of the bottle usually on the basis of aesthetics or according to the objectives of the winemaker. A rose with a paler shade like those from Côtes de Provence looks better in a very transparent glass of a very light color. For example, Tokaj chose transparency to highlight the specific golden color, like honey. However, because the color of wine evolves over time, it is recommended to use bottles in opaque colors. The darker they are, the more UV rays they will filter and thus the wine will keep better over time.
The mouth of the bottle
Can have a screw cap or cork closure. This detail is strongly influenced by the market where the wine will be launched, as it is an aspect highly dependent on the consumers preference. In New Zealand or Australia, screw caps bottles are preferred as a more practical option, while in more traditional markets, such as France or Italy, the closure is made with a cork, some consumers associating the screwcap with inferior quality wine.
By correctly combining the above factors we obtain the perfect bottle, that can communicate to the consumer the essence of the wine, from the first sight to the first touch. For questions, we are here – contact@sarom.eu