Launched at the Vinexpo exhibition in Bordeaux, Helix is said to be the result of a four-year collaboration between the two companies.
The new stopper is said to “combine an ergonomically-designed stopper made from cork and a glass bottle with an internal thread finish in the neck, creating a high performing and sophisticated wine packaging solution”.
Helix claims to combines all the benefits of cork and glass – quality, sustainability and premium image with user-friendly, re-sealable convenience.
The companies say it can be easily implemented by wineries with only a minor adjustment to the existing filling lines.
Amorim chairman and CEO, 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,” said Amorim.
“The future of innovation is through collaboration,” said O-I European President Erik Bouts. “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.”
The companies claim that after extensive testing, wine packaged in Helix glass bottles with cork stoppers showed no alteration in terms of taste, aroma or colour.
