Champagne Telmont launches ultra-lightweight bottle in USA market

USA – French winery Champagne Telmont has introduced what it calls “the world’s first ultra-lightweight standard Champagne bottle” to the USA market, marking a significant step in its sustainability journey.

Weighing just 800 grams (1.76 pounds), the innovative bottle debuts with Telmont’s Réserve Brut Champagne, and is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 4% per bottle, challenging long-held industry norms.

“Creativity and innovation must go hand in hand with responsibility,” said Ludovic du Plessis, president of Champagne Telmont.

“By adopting this ultra-lightweight bottle, we aim to redefine industry standards and contribute to a more sustainable future for Champagne—in the Name of Mother Nature.”

The initiative is part of Telmont’s broader environmental program, “In the Name of Mother Nature,” which aims to convert 100% of its estate and partner vineyards to organic and regenerative agriculture, preserve biodiversity, and significantly cut carbon emissions to reach net zero by 2050.

Telmont notes that bottle production accounts for roughly 30% of the Champagne industry’s total carbon footprint, driven in part by the long-standing standard that bottles weigh at least 835 g to withstand internal pressure.

Through extensive research and testing, Telmont has successfully created a more eco-conscious bottle without compromising strength or elegance.

Developed in partnership with French glassmaker Verallia, the 800g bottle retains the structural integrity required for Champagne while presenting a refined, traditional aesthetic.

Importantly, the design does not require changes to existing bottling equipment or processes, potentially making it easier for other producers to follow suit.

Telmont began testing the bottle in 2022 with an initial run of 3,000 units. Following the mandatory three-year aging process, these bottles are now available in the U.S. market.

Production ramped up to 30,000 bottles in 2023, and 220,000 in 2024, with Telmont planning to fully transition to the 800 g bottle by 2025.

Consumers can now purchase Telmont’s Réserve Brut in the ultra-lightweight bottle at select retailers and online for US$76.

This development comes amid a broader push for eco-friendly packaging in the wine industry. U.S. retailer Target recently began selling Collective Good wines in recycled paper bottles, while Aldi has introduced its own-brand wine in aluminum-based containers.

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