Monkey 47 unveils 95% recycled glass bottle

Nov 1, 2024by Rupert Hohwieler

Pernod Ricard-owned Monkey 47 has stepped up its sustainability drive, creating a glass bottle for its Sloe Gin made from 95% recycled materials.

The bottle is made from content that is 95% recycled; the label with crushed citrus paper, using 15% citrus fruit leftovers and 40% recycled fibres; the cork naturally harvested and CO2-absorbent; and shrink wraps made with a renewable ‘plastic substitute’ (PLA), from fermented plant starch. Monkey 47 said the total recycled content of the new Sloe Gin bottle stands at 95%, in comparison to 18% for the current bottle. Furthermore, all materials used are post-consumer recycled glass (PCR), which is made possible by working closely with specialist wild glass supplier Estal. Gregory Chevillat, general manager of Black Forest Distillers, which produces Monkey 47, said: “Sustainability is a given at Monkey 47. It reflects our deep connection to the Black Forest, which is known for its pristine landscapes and biodiversity. By choosing renewable materials that are responsibly sourced, we ensure that our packaging aligns with our values of protecting the planet. “The evolution with this new bottle is part of a broader commitment to sustainability that goes beyond short-term trends, helping us contribute to a more sustainable future for generations to come.” Monkey 47 is produced in the Black Forest (Schwarzwald in German) region of southwest Germany, and the second ​​part of its name comes from the amount of botanicals used in its recipe and its 47% ABV. The brand’s commitment to minimising waste includes the ingredients for its gins, and the materials it uses in packaging. Sloe Gin, for example, is made from the leftovers of the distillate from the brand’s dry gin. Last month, Monkey 47 unveiled its 14th limited edition Distiller’s Cut expression, made with an additional botanical from the ‘black pearl’ of the Mediterranean: capers. Pernod Ricard took full ownership of the brand in 2020. Recently another Pernod Ricard brand, Absolut Vodka, also reinforced its sustainable credentials by fully phasing out fossil fuels at its Swedish distillery.