16 May 2012 --- De Bortoli Wines has revolutionised the sparkling wine industry today by partnering with two of Australia’s leading packaging suppliers to launch the country’s first screw-capped sparkling wines.

The third-generation, family-owned wine company has applied the highly-anticipated sparkling screw-cap to its popular Trevi range which includes three varietals as well as its on-premise premium Willowglen Sparkling Brut.

The new innovative screw-cap dubbed Viiva, was developed locally by Guala Closures Australia in response to ongoing complaints from industry and consumers about traditional cork-closed sparkling wines including opening difficulty and loss of carbonation. Guala Closures Australia worked in collaboration with leading glass manufacturer O-I to develop a bottle specifically designed to fit the closure.

The Viiva closure system provides greater convenience for consumers, is familiar and easy-to-open. As it can be resealed, it also minimises wastage and enhances consumer value.

The unique closure system took five years to develop and significant investment in research and development to ensure it was suited to traditional 5-gas-volume sparkling wines.

De Bortoli Wines’ National Sales Manager Peter Yeoman believes the sparkling screw-cap closure provides consumers with significant advantages.

“This closure system is perfectly suited to sparkling wines which are popular among women who often report difficulties in opening cork-closures and resealing a bottle with alternative closures once opened,” said Mr Yeoman.

“The sparkling screw-cap closure eliminates safety issues associated with opening corkclosures and will encourage responsible consumption of alcohol as it enables consumers to drink one glass of wine, while maintaining carbonation days after opening.

“We’ve made the decision to convert the entire Trevi range and Willowglen Sparkling Brut exclusively to the new closure because this technology is truly ground-breaking and will put Australia’s sparkling wine industry at the forefront of innovation.”

The new sparkling screw-cap also provides additional benefits for on-premise customers and event organisers.

“This technology appeals to on-premise customers because it reduces time staff spend opening sparkling wines, a major advantage when dealing with multiple bottle openings at busy venues or events when speedy service is critical,” said Mr Yeoman.

“It’s also the ideal solution for venues wishing to serve sparkling wine by the glass while reducing wastage and cost.

“Our use of this unique closure further highlights our commitment to Australia’s sparkling wine industry and cements De Bortoli Wines’ position as one of the country’s pioneering wine brands.”

The Trevi range and Willowglen Sparkling Brut with the screw-cap closure are on sale this month.