Co-op to become first supermarket to take on ‘screwcork’

Multiple convenience retailer Co-op is to become the first supermarket to take on Helix – a resealable cork from Amorim.

The neck label explains the Helix concept

In what is Portugal’s answer to the metal screw cap, the Helix cork was four years in the development and has been designed with a thread finish in the neck of the bottle to allow drinkers to twist out the stopper by hand and reseal, creating an airtight barrier to keep the wine fresh.

The retailer collaborated with Portuguese cork manufacturer Amorim and winery Adega Vila Real to launch its first wine with the stopper. Available exclusively to Co-op, the Vila Real Rabelo Red 2015 will retail for £6 and will be available nationwide from 10 October.

The Helix cork closure is designed to offer the same convenience as a screw cap, but with the advantages of cork in terms of sustainability and image.

Sarah Benson, Co-op wine buyer, said: “This is a modern twist on the traditional cork, which has been used for hundreds of years to help age and store wine. This is a real coup for us at Co-op and an example of how we are continuing to look for ways to innovate the category to meet the needs of our ever-changing customer base.”

Carlos de Jesus from Amorim added: “We’re excited to be working in partnership with Co-op to bring our Helix cork closures and O-I’s specially-designed glass bottles to UK shoppers, who are now able to enjoy wine packaging convenience that is also environmentally-friendly.”

Portugal’s cork forests are recognised by the WWF and are one of the biodiverse habitats in the world.

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