The shuttle is a new concept in wine packaging. It is an innovative plastic wine bottle and glass combination package for use at events or when on the go. It's perfect for picnics and sporting events when you don't want to, or aren't allowed to have glass or metal containers for safety and security reasons. It's the first bottle/glass package ever introduced and this creation may redefine how and when people drink wine, as well as possibly increase its consumption on a larger scale.

Originally designed by the Hardy Wine Company for Cirque de Soleil's Varekai production during its season in Australia, the idea was so popular and appealing that the idea is being taken nationally, from state to state as Cirque de Soleil tours the country. I expect the idea to go global soon after as the product proves itself. Hardy Wine is Australia's largest wine producer and is known innovative ideas and product development.

The Shuttle is a tamper proof, one serving (187 ml. / 6.3 oz.) acrylic wine bottle that currently comes filled with Hardy's Shiraz or Chardonnay wine. To open you twist the top which releases the glass, and then you serve yourself by pouring the wine into the glass. Simple enough. The Shuttles are easy to store and keep for 12 months, twice as long as other PET small format bottles. At the event the design has seen customers served more quickly and efficiently than other types of wine service, promoting convenience and boosting wine sales by 160% compared to Cirque de Soleil's last tour.

The idea which may seem quite simple, was difficult to actually execute. Two intrinsic parts of the design took much experimenting to achieve. Making sure the closure was air and liquid tight, and making sure the glass would twist off easily and safely. The next big difficulty was in designing the production line where the glass has to be attached to the bottle after filling with wine.

Besides being currently sold at Cirque du Soleil venues and at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne next year, it will be tested in limited amounts at retail stores for $4.95AU ($3.88US) per bottle in some parts of Australia starting early 2007, and a small batch of slightly larger 200ml. / 6.76 oz. bottles will be sent to the UK in March 2007.