This invention relates to a bottle closure assembly (10) for use in the efficient production of sparkling wines. The invention comprises: a stopper (12) for sealing engagement within the finish and/or neck portion(s) of a bottle (100); a passage (18) within said stopper extending longitudinally from a wine-side opening (20) at one end thereof; and a valve member (30) located within said passage. The valve member is selectively gravity-responsive thus allowing passage of liquid and/or solid and/or gaseous materials to be permitted or prevented dependent upon the orientation of the bottle closure assembly. This invention also discloses a disgorgement method for use in the production of sparkling wines.

This invention relates to a bottle closure assembly (10) for use in the efficient production of sparkling wines. The invention comprises: a stopper (12) for sealing engagement within the finish and/or neck portion(s) of a bottle (100); a passage (18) within said stopper extending longitudinally from a wine-side opening (20) at one end thereof; and a valve member (30) located within said passage. The valve member is selectively gravity-responsive thus allowing passage of liquid and/or solid and/or gaseous materials to be permitted or prevented dependent upon the orientation of the bottle closure assembly. This invention also discloses a disgorgement method for use in the production of sparkling wines.