Helix
Most consumers globally still prefer cork stoppers in their wine, but in recent years cork is steadily losing ground, partly because metal twist caps are so much more convenient.
Now a partnership between two giants of the beverage industry has resulted in a traditional cork that gives you the convenience of a twist cap.
Late last year the Bronco Wine Company in California announced its Red Truck brand of wine will use an innovative new cork from the Portuguese startup Helix Concept.
The Helix cork is made from Portugal’s traditional cork oak trees, but twists off just like a metal screw cap.
The cork and the bottle together both have matching grooves, and the cork protrudes from the bottle with a large mushroom-shaped top, similar to that of a champagne cork. That large, wide top makes it easier for the consumer to grip and open the bottle with a single twist.
Just as importantly, the cork can just as easily be used to close the bottle; something that is very difficult with a traditionally shaped cork stopper.
Helix Concept is a hybrid concept developed by two of the biggest players in the business. The corks were developed by Amorim, the world’s largest manufacturer of traditional corks, but the bottles were developed by Owens-Illinois, the world’s largest manufacturer of glass containers.
The unique packaging solution won the prestigious WINnovation award of excellence last year, and quickly attracted key customers.
Bronco is the fifth largest wine producer in America, and the largest owner of vineyards.
CEO Fred Franzia says he’s thrilled with the new Helix corks.
“Wine consumers in America have a growing understanding of the role quality cork and quality wine play in delivering their wine in a sustainable but premium format,” Franz says. “At Bronco, we have been doing exactly that for many years, but with Helix and Red Truck, the U.S. market will now have access to all that plus the convenience of an easy-opening and easy-to-reclose bottle.
“We are proud at Bronco to be the first winery in America to deliver this incredible innovation.”
Learn more at: helixconcept.com
