Screw caps: the search for sustainability between tradition and innovation

In recent years, the concept of sustainability in viticulture has traditionally focused on agricultural techniques. However, it is now clear that packaging also plays a crucial role in reducing the overall environmental impact. The responsibility of wine producers is no longer limited only to the quality of the final product, but extends to a conscious management of resources and the reduction of waste.

Walter Massa, a fourth-generation winemaker and pioneer of sustainable practices, joined Emanuele Sansone, director of Guala Closures, and sommelier Luca Dal Lago at wine2wine Business Forum 2023 to address an increasingly relevant topic: the importance of sustainable packaging in reducing carbon emissions.

The future of wine packaging: lightweight bottles and screw caps

Consumer preferences are gradually shifting towards more sustainable packaging solutions, with screw caps becoming a viable alternative to traditional cork stoppers. While the latter remains a symbol of authenticity and tradition, screw caps are gaining popularity for their practicality, ease of use, and ability to preserve wine optimally.

Another significant innovation is the use of lighter bottles, which reduce the environmental impact due to the lower amount of energy required to produce and transport them. This change not only improves sustainability throughout the wine supply chain, but does so without compromising product quality.

Consumer perceptions and wine storytelling

Sustainability is a value that is increasingly appreciated by consumers, particularly in the high-end catering sector, where interest in the origin and environmental responsibility of products is particularly relevant. However, some resistance remains: the ritual of opening a bottle of wine with a cork is still perceived as an integral part of the experience.

To overcome these barriers, it is necessary to educate consumers about the benefits of alternative closures, such as screw caps. Effective storytelling, which emphasizes the environmental benefits of these solutions, can not only improve the consumer experience, but also increase the perceived value of wine, thus fostering a cultural shift towards greater sustainability.

Walter Massa

Walter Massa, a fourth-generation farmer and winemaker, is an ethical pioneer in viticulture. A supporter of the "contamination" of thought to address climate change, he is active in protection consortia and FIVI. Promoter of the group "Gli Svitati", he innovated the use of screw caps for white wines.

Emanuele Sansone

Emanuele Sansone, General Manager of the Italy Business Unit of Guala Closures Group, has a career rich in experience in R&D, operations and sales. He currently also holds the role of Sales Director Italy, promoting training events on the company's products. With a humanistic and technical background, he defines himself as a "humanist engineer," integrating ethical values and a vision of the future.

Luca Dal Lago

Luca Dal Lago, born in 1980, started working in the family restaurant at the age of 16, dealing with bread, menus and dining room service. After graduating in Industrial Chemistry, he obtained the title of sommelier in 2005 and followed a specialization in dining room at the Alma school. Today he is maître d' and sommelier, with the future role of owner, and deals with the selection of wines through fairs, tastings and visits to the cellar.