Mauro di Girolamo and Tommaso Marzolini · CLIENT: Pour Different
Unico is a multifunctional wine stopper redefining wine accessories with six integrated features. In addition to being a drip-free pourer, flow reducer, and instant wine aerator, it introduces three exclusive innovations: Easy Open for effortless use, Safety Stop to prevent spills, and an NFC enabled stand for access to ever-evolving wine-related content. Produced via SLS 3D printing, it allows rapid customization, even for small batches, ensuring unique designs with fast production times.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Unico combines six functions in a single solution. In addition to being a drip-free pourer, flow reducer, and instant wine aerator, it introduces three exclusive innovations: Easy Open, allowing you to open and close the bottle without removing it; Safety Stop, the first system that seals the bottle in case of accidental tipping; and a smart stand with integrated NFC, providing access to exclusive wine-related content simply by bringing your smartphone close.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- Length 25 mm
Width 25 mm
Height 100 mm - Tags
- stopper, winestopper, winetool, wine
- Production Technology
- Unico was developed through an iterative design process combining advanced engineering, digital fabrication, and user-centered research. Produced via SLS 3D printing, it integrates PA12 nylon, food-grade silicone, stainless steel, and neodymium magnets for durability and performance. 3D printing enables rapid customization, even for small batches, allowing unique designs tailored to specific needs. All this is complemented by NFC integration, enhancing interactivity and making Unico a wine stopper bridging tradition and innovation.
- Design Challenge
- The project was conceived with the ambition of integrating all the most sought-after functions in the industry into a single tool. Its functional complexity and intricate geometries were made possible through laser sintering 3D printing.
In addition to reducing production waste by over 40% compared to traditional manufacturing methods, this technology is the only one capable of creating the complex internal geometries that would otherwise be impossible to achieve. - Project Duration
- Born in Florence in December 2023, the project was recognized among the best Italian design projects of 2024 by the ADI Design Index, earning a nomination for the Compasso d’Oro 2026. It was exhibited at the ADI Design Museum in Milan and Spazio WeGil in Rome between October and November 2024. Unico is also the winner of the 2025 Global Design Awards in Hong Kong. Developed through extensive research and innovation, it embodies a balance of functionality and aesthetics, setting a new standard in contemporary design and redefining the user experience.
- Operation Flow
- Once applied to the bottle, Unico opens and closes with a simple half-turn, allowing pouring without removal. The same motion resets it if the Safety Stop is activated. During pouring, it instantly aerates the wine. After use, a 180-degree turn allows full disassembly for deep cleaning, even in the dishwasher. Its interactive stand acts as both a support and a gateway to expertly curated, AI-enhanced wine content, simply by bringing your smartphone close.
- Research
- The research began with a market analysis to understand wine enthusiasts' needs and accessory limitations. The goal was to create a multifunctional stopper without compromising aesthetics or practicality. Using an iterative approach with tests and simulations, we optimized design and functionality. Surveys, sommelier interviews, and user testing validated comfort and efficiency. The integrated NFC enhances interactivity, impacting product innovation and functional design evolution.
- Inspiration
- Unico is not only an elegant synthesis of innovation but a tribute to the essence of wine itself. Inspired by its deep cultural heritage and the rituals of sharing, Unico enhances both the serving and tasting experience while fostering the exchange of knowledge and stories about wine. Every design choice reflects the fluidity and refinement of wine, blending tradition and technology into a seamless interaction that connects people through a shared passion.
- Patents
- Patent application for industrial invention. No. 102023000006048. 29/03/2023. Italy
Utility model patent application. No. 202023000001290. 29/03/20233. Italy
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