Recently, I read that winemakers are introducing lighter wine bottles to the market to shrink their carbon footprint. While checking out Thanksgiving recipes in the newspaper the other day, I noted a section on the making lighter wine bottles.
Why are Lighter Wine Bottles Needed?
I never really thought much about this topic, but apparently there is an international agreement between a coalition of wine distributers and retailers to decrease the weight of wine bottles. In fact, several overseas retailers have imposed weight limits on imported wine.
In thinking about the making of glass wine bottles, we find it to be energy-intensive. While everyone tries to reduce their “carbon footprint”, making lighter weight wine bottles is one way to accomplish this.
Are Heavy Bottles a Sign of Quality?
OK, this is where things get a little difficult because some consumers view heavy bottles as a sign of quality. Of course, there are, also, other people view lighter bottles as easier to break.
I’m also a little guilty of the perception that heaver means better quality. But according to this article, heaver bottles are not better for the environment.
So, the wine market is coming out with newer stronger bottle designs which are helping to change the mind of skeptics.
Ending Notes on Lighter Wine Bottles Blog
It was interesting to note that you can now buy some wines with bottles that are made of recycled plastic with a layer of Plasmax to protect the wine from oxidation from plastic.
Plasmax is new technology for making PET containers with a thin-layer of glass-like silicon oxide on the interior.
However, this method of bottling vine and beer is not intended for long-term storage. My research indicates, It is used for wine and beer that will be served within about a 18-months time span.
I love the fact that everyone is trying to reduce their carbon foot print on the world. It is so important to try to keep cutting back until there is zero carbon footprints for everyone.
Not sure if that is even possible, but it’s a nice thought.
Research Sites: Plastemart.com and Winemakers are introducing lighter bottles – some plastic – to go green, The Washington Post, Nov. 15, 2023.