Screwcaps

Screwcaps are bottle closures consisting of a metal cap that screws onto a bottle neck with matching threads. They are used on a variety of beverages and products, including wine, beer, spirits, juice, water, and condiments. Most screwcaps incorporate a liner to form a seal and may include a tamper-evident band or cap seal.

In wine, screwcaps gained prominence in the late 20th century as an alternative to cork. They are now widely used around the world, and in some regions account for the majority of bottled wine. The term Stelvin is often encountered as a generic reference to wine screw caps, though it is a brand name.

Mechanism and variants: a screwcap closure uses external threads on the cap and internal threads on the bottle neck. A liner—typically plastic or a multilayer material—helps create a seal and control oxygen transfer. Some configurations include induction-seal options or additional tamper-evident features. The closures can be made from aluminum or steel.

Advantages: screwcaps provide consistent sealing across large bottling runs, reduce the risk of cork taint from TCA, and offer easy, reliable opening and resealing. They are particularly valued for preserving freshness and are common on white wines, sparkling wines with specific closures, and many non-wine beverages.

Limitations and considerations: perceptions of quality and aging potential have varied, though attitudes have shifted as winemakers report reliable aging with screwcaps. Some producers express concerns about equipment or waste during bottling setup. Recycling and end-of-life considerations depend on the materials and liners used.

Environmental aspects: most screwcaps are recyclable, often as aluminum or steel, and recycling rates vary by region. The choice of liner material can influence recyclability and waste management.