Integrated corkscrew offers wine bottlers new packaging option

IC3 is a plastic capsule that fits over a corked wine bottle in a similar manner as a traditional foil capsule.

A new wine bottle closure concept called IC3™ (3-in-1 Integrated Corkscrew) is designed to provide ease of opening without a traditional cork screw tool, excellent product protection against oxidation, and easy, high-integrity resealing of unused wine portions.

Developed by Gardner Technologies, Inc. and formerly known as "MetaCork," the IC3 is a plastic capsule that fits over a corked wine bottle in a similar manner as a traditional foil capsule. Preventing cork movement during temperature changes, the plastic capsule also integrates a corkscrew mechanism that enables the cork (natural cork material or synthetic) to be easily removed by hand (no tools required) with 5 or 6 half turns. The wine then can be easily and tightly recapped.

The capsule and reseal cap are made from injection-molded ABS. The reseal cap liner is made of three-ply co-extruded material—a foamed low-density polyethylene core sandwiched between two solid layers of low-density polyethylene. Gardner Technologies offers 360-degree, 5-color spot printing of the capsules. A variety of colors also is available.

IC3 is not yet in commercial application. But market tests with several wineries, including Amusant Wines, Napa, CA, have demonstrated positive responses among consumers as well as restaurants, bars, and airlines. According to independent survey results released by the manufacturer, 77% of those surveyed said they would be very likely to purchase another bottle of wine with an IC3 closure system. While IC3 adds about 10-15 cents to packaging cost per bottle, Gardner Technologies believes the system has the potential to significantly increase market share for wineries, and maybe even other segments such as specialty beverages, olive oils, and nut oils. The IC3 is a recipient of a DuPont Silver Award.