Aldi is raising a glass to sustainability with the launch of the UK’s first supermarket own-brand aluminium wine bottle. Available in stores from 14th April, the Costellore Pinot Grigio (£5.99, 75cl) combines outstanding value with strong environmental credentials.

Weighing just 95g, the innovative aluminium bottle is nearly 75% lighter than a typical glass alternative and is fully recyclable. The reduced weight delivers a notable transport benefit, saving over five tonnes per truckload, equivalent to the weight of a small elephant.

The wine itself, a crisp and refreshing Pinot Grigio featuring notes of zesty lemon and orchard fruits, is shipped from Italy and bottled in the UK at a winery powered by renewable energy. It pairs perfectly with seafood, white meats, light creamy sauces, and pasta.

The launch follows Aldi’s recent win as ‘Sustainable Drinks Retailer of the Year’ at The Drinks Retailing Awards, underlining the supermarket’s continued leadership in sustainable innovation. This recognition reflects a broader commitment to eco-conscious practices, including the rollout of super-lightweight bottles in partnership with Lanchester Wines and two own-brand wines packaged in paper bottles.

Julie Ashfield, Chief Commercial Officer at Aldi UK, commented: “Our buying teams are constantly exploring ways to offer greater value and greener choices for our customers. Shoppers are looking for ways to make a difference, and we’re proud to be leading the way with innovations like this aluminium wine bottle, building on our commitment to sustainable packaging.”

Aldi developed this pioneering initiative in partnership with Broadland Drinks, a UK-based producer focused on environmentally friendly drinks packaging.

Catherine Smith, Commercial Director at Broadland Drinks, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Aldi on the launch of the aluminium wine bottle. This initiative fits perfectly with our ambition to reduce our own carbon footprint and work with our retailers to make their businesses more sustainable. We know the biggest factor in a bottle of wine’s carbon footprint is the bottle itself, so by switching from glass to aluminium, we can help meet the rising demand for alternative lower carbon formats.”