A Quick Reference to Wine Bottle Shapes, Sizes, and Packaging

You don't get a second chance to make a good first impression. It applies not only to people, but also to the packaging of wine boxes. So, if you want to create unforgettable experiences at your winery, start by understanding the world of bottle shapes and sizes available to you.

Shapes of Wine Bottles

Wine bottles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and are mostly made of glass because it protects the quality of the wine, is sustainable, aesthetically pleasing, and adds to the overall experience. Furthermore, a few shapes have become standards over time. Here are a few examples:

Claret

Claret, also known as Bordeaux, is one of the most common shapes found around the world. These bottles are ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot because they have distinct straight sides, high, dramatic shoulders, and a broader base. It is also believed that the heavier the bottle, the more opulent the wine!

Burgundy

The shoulders of this bottle shape are graceful and gently sloping. It is ideal for sophisticated and nuanced wines. As a result, it is still a classic vessel for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.

Hock

Hock wine bottles are frequently used for sweet wines and Rieslings. These are quite delicate and have a slim profile. Hock bottles are also known by other names, such as Alsace, Mosel, and Rhone.

Specialty

Specialty wine bottles have a narrow and tall profile. They are frequently associated with iced wine, sparkling wine, and specialty dessert wines.

Sizes of Wine Bottles

Wine is packaged in a variety of sizes. The volumes vary, and the names are frequently derived from biblical kings and other historical figures.

Split or Piccolo

This is a small, usually plastic, bottle that holds approximately 6.3 oz. (187.5 ml) of liquid. Piccolo glasses are perfect for single servings of sweet wine or champagne.

Half or Demi

A demi- or half-bottle holds approximately 12.7 oz. (375 ml) of wine and is half the size of a standard bottle.

Jennie

This size can hold approximately 16.9 oz. (500 ml) of liquid. A Jennie, or half-liter, bottle is uncommon but ideal for sweet, dessert-styled wines.

Standard

The traditional 25.5 oz. (750 ml) bottle is appropriate for all types of wines. This site is critical to the entire economy's production, distribution, and imports.

Liter

This 33.8 oz. (1 L) wine bottle has grown in popularity over time because it provides more bang for your buck. It's a standard size for value wines.

Magnum

Here's a 50.7 oz (1.5 L) magnified bottle that's better for display than drinking. It holds twice as much as the standard size.

Larger Sizes

Yes, there are sizes larger than Magnum. These range from 3 L (called Jeroboam or Double Magnum) to 20 L (called Solomon) and beyond.

Packaging for Wine Bottles

Wine bottles require distinctive packaging to preserve their distinctive qualities while also providing a safety barrier against outside elements. Any type of bottle can be packaged properly, from totes to cartons and bag-in-box containers. We handle the packaging while you focus on making the best wine possible. Custom Wine Packaging is an industry-leading packaging company that can meet the needs of any Vineyard or Winery, as well as bottle shapes and sizes. Contact us and we'll assist you in elevating your branding efforts.