There’s more to packaging wine than applying a label and calling it a day. Whether you’re preparing for your first small batch or scaling up for a larger release, timing and materials can make or break the process. Skipping even one detail can lead to delays, extra costs, or missed deadlines, especially during bottling season.
To help you plan properly, here’s a full breakdown of what to source, when to do it, and what to double-check before you start filling bottles.
Timing is Everything in Wine Packaging
Bottling isn’t the time to be scrambling for missing parts. Every element should be secured, inspected, and ready well before the bottling date. This gives you enough time for quality checks, design approvals, and any changes without stress.
If your wine is almost ready, your packaging should be too.
So, how early should you start?
- 3 to 6 months before bottling – Begin sourcing long-lead items like labels, corks, and glass
- 1 to 2 months before bottling – Confirm delivery timelines, inspect shipments, and finalize artwork
- 2 to 4 weeks before bottling – Assemble all components, label bottles if applying ahead, schedule bottling day
The key is working backwards. Once you know your target bottling date, plan each packaging step in reverse from that point.
The Core Components: What You Actually Need
Let’s break down the main items you’ll need to bottle wine properly, in the right order.
Glass Bottles
The first item to secure is your glass. Whether you’re using traditional Bordeaux-style bottles, Burgundy shapes, or something more custom, glass is something you need to source carefully and quickly. Supply can tighten quickly during peak seasons, especially for specialty colors or finishes. Look for empty wine bottles for sale as early as possible to keep your options open and avoid any last-minute changes.
Always order more than you need to cover for breakage or fill variations. A good rule of thumb is to budget an extra 3–5% over your final count.
Closures
Corks, screwcaps, and synthetic closures all require specific sourcing. If you’re using natural cork, factor in the added time for treatment, branding, or testing. For screwcaps, check that the bottle necks are compatible with your closure type and machine settings.
Closures are often printed or marked with custom logos or vintage years, so you’ll want to allow time for approval and production.
Labels
Labels usually take longer than people think. The design process can involve multiple revisions, compliance checks, and printer proofs. Once finalized, production time can range from a few days to several weeks.
Make sure your wine label meets all regulatory standards for your region. That includes alcohol content, volume, bottling location, and other required elements.
Capsules or Wax
Foil capsules or wax seals add the final touch, but they need to be ordered in tandem with closures. Capsule sizes depend on the neck finish of your glass, so confirm dimensions early.
Some producers opt to skip capsules altogether. That’s fine, but be sure your bottling line is configured for it.
Supporting Materials You Shouldn’t Forget
These items may seem minor, but missing even one can stall your entire bottling day.
- Case boxes – Sturdy, properly sized cases for shipping and storage
- Dividers – For glass protection within each box
- Adhesives or applicators – If applying labels manually
- Lot coding tools – Date stamps or batch numbers for traceability
- Shrink bands or tamper evidence – Required for certain markets
Keep in mind, even if you outsource bottling, you’re likely still responsible for supplying these materials. Check with your mobile bottler or facility ahead of time.
Quality Control: Don’t Skip It
Packaging might seem like the final step, but it’s not the place to let your guard down. Every component should be inspected well before bottling day.
Here’s a basic quality control checklist:
- Glass – Check for consistent shape, weight, and color. Look out for defects like air bubbles or uneven lips.
- Labels – Inspect print quality and adhesion. Confirm label rolls are wound correctly for your application equipment.
- Closures – Test cork elasticity or screwcap threading. Reject any damaged or poorly printed units.
- Capsules or wax – Confirm fit and appearance. Practice application on test bottles if needed.
If you catch an issue too late, replacing the product could delay your timeline by weeks. Don’t assume everything will be perfect out of the box. Open and inspect early.
Your Next Step Forward
Think of packaging as part of your wine’s identity, not just a box to tick off. Done well, it protects your product, reflects your brand, and keeps operations smooth. So, get your timing right, confirm each detail, and leave no item unchecked!
