From from punt to finish, every part of a wine bottle is designed to support function, protection and presentation.
Every wine bottle is shaped by four essential elements: shape, size, colour and closure. Together, they determine not only how a bottle looks, but how wine is protected, perceived and experienced. At Vetropack, we see bottle anatomy as the foundation of successful wine packaging. From classic silhouettes rooted in regional tradition to bottle sizes that range from piccolo to jeroboam, every choice carries meaning. Colour plays a vital role in shelf appeal and light protection, while the closure defines how wine is opened, stored and enjoyed. Understanding these key elements allows winemakers and brands to create packaging that balances heritage with performance — ensuring each bottle tells its story, preserves quality, and supports the desired positioning in the market.
The five principle bottle shapes
Bordeaux
With its straight sides and high shoulders, symbolises structure in winemaking. Today, its iconic shape is used globally and remains the most recognisable wine bottle design.
Burgundy
With its wide base and sloping shoulders, features flowing lines that reflect the elegance and finesse of wines like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, prioritising aesthetic identity over practicality.
Rhone
Resembles the Burgundy shape but is taller with a longer neck, traditionally featuring embossed crests that signal regional pride and are closely associated with classic Rhone varietals.
Sparkling wine
A heavy, thick design with a deep punt to withstand the high pressure of sparkling wines, and its form has been widely adopted worldwide for styles from Champagne to Prosecco.
Rhinewine
Tall, slender, and elegant, traditionally used for wines like Riesling and Gewürztraminer from regions along the Rhine, with a design rooted in historical river transport.
The most common colours
Green
Traditional for sparkling and red wines. Darker green glass reduces light exposure, helping to prevent oxidation and protect sensitive content.
Vetrogreen
A distinctive Vetropack green tone combining sustainability and protection. Reduces light impact while supporting a recognisable brand appearance.
Feuille Morte
A bright, expressive colour used for differentiation and strong shelf impact. Ideal for limited editions or products with a bold visual identity.
Cuvée
A warm brown tone associated with craftsmanship and character. Suitable for specialty beverages where a traditional or premium aesthetic is desired. Offers high UV protection.
Olive
A muted, natural green with a premium, organic feel. Frequently used for wines or food products positioned as authentic or artisanal.
Amber
Offers high UV protection and helps preserve flavour and quality. Often used for products that require extended shelf life, such as beers or wines intended for ageing.
Flint
Clear glass that highlights the natural colour of the product. Commonly used for white and rosé wines, where visual appearance plays a key role.
Closures: The final element of a wine bottle
Cork closures
The traditional choice, associated with quality and aging potential. Corks come in different sizes depending on the bottle neck.
Screw caps
Increasingly popular, especially in New World regions. They are resealable and practical, though sometimes perceived as less prestigious.
ROPE/ROPP Caps
Roll-On Pilfer Evident closures, also known as Stelvin caps, provide tamper evidence.
Why do wine bottles have an indented bottom?
The indentation at the base of a wine bottle is called a punt. Its depth varies—from nearly flat in Rhinewine bottles to deep in sparkling wines—and it serves several purposes:
- Sediment control: Sediment settles in the divot, keeping it out of the pour.
- Ease of pouring: Servers press their thumb into the punt, a traditional grip considered more refined than holding the body.
- Strength: In Sparkling wines, the punt reinforces the glass to withstand fermentation pressure.
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