Wine in a Straw and Other Packaging Innovations

Are you ready for a little revolution in your glass(ware)? Innovation in the wine world never stands still, from sustainability to ease of use. Today, a lot of attention is focused on the weight of wine bottles. This needs to be reduced for transport and the environment.

Over time, there have naturally been a lot of adjustments and innovations in the packaging of our favorite drink. Think of the champagne bottle, for example.

In the past, when champagne was made by accident, the wine produced in the region was still in ordinary bottles. Then, such a bottle would start fermenting again and spontaneously explode. A surprise party, shall we say.

There are also a host of other trials and packaging you've probably never seen before, and I'll show you the top 3.

1. THE PICCOLO WITH JUICE PACKAGING TOP

A leading producer from Provence discovered that their largest market consisted of hikers and picnickers who struggled with heavy glass bottles and corks. The solution? The familiar peel-off aluminum closure from juice and drink cartons. The bottle is made of ultra-lightweight, unbreakable polymer, and thanks to the carton-style closure, the packaging is not only lighter but also superior in retaining aromas. A white straw was included for those who wanted to taste directly while also staying on the move.

2. THE VINO-SQUEEZE™ SQUEEZE POUCH

Created by a tech-vintner in Silicon Valley. The Vino-Squeeze™ is no ordinary plastic bag; it's a high-tech seven-layer polymer bag that lets in absolutely no oxygen. The special spout allows for precision pouring down to the millimeter, ideal for tastings where you want to pour small, controlled quantities. A large French cooperative is currently testing this bag to sell wine in 'micro-portion capsules,' so you can do a complete tasting at home without having to open six bottles.

3. THE 'MOLECULAR WINE PEARL'

In collaboration with a Michelin-starred molecular gastronomy institute, this 'pearl' was developed. It dates back to the period when molecular cooking became a hype, thanks to restaurants like El Bulli.

A proprietary encapsulation process ensures that these small spheres, the size of a grape, contain pure and undiluted wine. There is zero waste: the pearl completely dissolves in the glass as soon as it comes into contact with liquid, or you can pop it directly into your mouth for an explosion of flavor. It's the ultimate in portion control and is already a big hit in high-end cocktail bars as 'wine shots.'

Where can I order them?

Although we love innovation, the classic bottle is still our favorite. Unfortunately, you won't find these with us.