Refill Bottles

One of the three ways counterfeiters make fake bottles is by simply refilling authentic bottles. Whether they are reusing the empties from their own previous consumption, or taking empty bottles from tastings and restaurant settings, counterfeits that are the result of refilling can be very tough to spot, especially if the crooks also use the original corks.

Refilling bottles, or any other type of wine vessels, with particular designations as to region of origin, vintage, varietal or blend, and presenting them or selling them as originals in not a new practice.

Check back here in the future for in-depth information and stories about refilling wine, how it is done and what to look for to ensure your bottles have not been previously enjoyed. Until then, here are a few examples: