Boisset to use plastic bottles for wines exported to US

From November, Boisset will start shipping around 30,000 cases of Beaujolais Nouveau in 750ml PET bottles supplied by Constar. They will have Stelvin screw caps.

In addition, the company will launch Fog Mountain, an organic California Nouveau, in the PET bottles.

Boisset innovation brand manager Patrick Egan said the move would enable the firm to save up to 33% on freight charges and reduce its carbon footprint by 40%, saving more than 900 tonnes of carbon emissions.

The PET bottles contain Constar’s MonOxbar barrier technology, which is claimed to ensure the quality of the wine and prolong its shelf life.

Boisset president Jean-Charles Boisset said: “The traditional characteristics of Beaujolais Nouveau wines – crisp, refreshing young fruit – are perfectly protected in our innovative PET bottle. Further, the shatterproof bottle finished with a screwcap provides ease of use, safety and convenience to all who enjoy the first taste of the 2008 harvest.”

Boisset already packages its French Rabbit wine in Tetra Pak cartons and will add Green Rabbit, its organic cousin, this winter.

The firm has also used 750ml aluminium bottles for its Mommessin Beaujolais Grande Reserve and Egan said it was currently evaluating how best to expand its use.

In France, Boisset is developing a glass bottle that will be 150g lighter than the conventional bottle.

“We are constantly seeking new alternatives that benefit the consumer as well as reduce the impact on the environment,” said Egan.

Boisset has its roots in Burgundy, France and wineries on two continents, plus a US office in California.

Popular Articles