Aluminum supply problems in a complicated geopolitical context and an energy crisis... This is the starting point for the steps to set up paper caps, this element which hugs the cork and part of the neck champagne bottles.
“For the past few months, we have had difficulty obtaining it and we have suffered a price increase of more than 50%.
The ecological aspect has also given a boost,” explains Laurent Panigai, director of the General Union of Champagne Winegrowers.
Read alsoTelmont champagnes are testing lighter bottles to reduce their carbon footprint
Some winegrowers have even taken the lead by extending the environmental approach undertaken in their vineyards to the labeling of their bottles.
This is particularly the case of producer Pierre Trichet based in Trois-Puits near Reims.
His cuvée “Rosé de saignée” is a fine example.
The cap supplied by Vipalux in Reims is made of vegetable fiber and is applied by simple pressure.
It contains no ink or glue and is 100% recyclable.
"Breaking the Codes"
"Breaking the codes of traditional Champagne with original packaging, exceptional, innovative and more than ever respectful of Nature", this is how Maison Trichet assumes its new challenge.
Since then, other winegrowers have decided to take a similar approach.
“This cap will enhance top-of-the-range cuvées.
This micro-sculpted aspect with all these folds, it gives a more raw look.
It's made of plant fiber paper, it creates a link with the earth and the living,” explains Laurent Panigai.
Read alsoIn Champagne, global warming is disrupting the vineyards
Today in Champagne, Vipalux based in Reims is the only capsule producer of paper caps.
But the SGVC is betting on a good development of this innovation even if the rendering is different from that offered by the aluminum cap.
Because it is also water resistant and supports digital printing as well as embossing.
Only downside, this alternative is more expensive: a basic headdress costs 15 cents when the same paper one is around 45 cents.
“But in terms of carbon footprint, it's unbeatable, concedes Laurent Panigai.
In January, we will start with four winegrowers.
Our ambition is for a hundred thousand bottles to be dressed with a paper cap.
We will have a volume that will optimize its price”.
See you in 2023 for the first feedback from winegrowers and especially from their customers.
