Ernest and Julio Gallo consider screwcaps

Makers of a top-selling wine are experimenting with screwcap tops instead of the traditional cork, it emerged today.

Ernest and Julio Gallo is introducing metal caps on a limited number of bottles to assess the reaction from consumers.

The company is among a growing number of wine-makers investigating screwcaps, which can be opened easily and provide a better seal.

They also avoid the risk of contaminated or “corked” wine.

Gallo, which has four wineries in California, said in a statement: “Ernest & Julio Gallo is always keen to offer the best to consumers.

“To this end Ernest & Julio Gallo is continually exploring new developments within wine, such as plastic corks closure and screwcaps.

“The purpose of this trial is for consumers to tell us what they think. We will be monitoring results very carefully.”