Decades before wine lovers began to appreciate screwcaps, SIGG Switzerland provided aluminum beverage bottles to the world.

My introduction to SIGG bottles came via REI in the 1980s, and I own three that must be at least 20 years old. I still use my Sporting SIGG with then-tennis star Petr Korda on the label. For backpackers, it was good to note that beverage bottles were blue. Camping fuel bottles are red.

Since Y2K, environmentally conscious office workers are deciding to drink their water from SIGG-style bottles vs. plastic bottles. It makes sense and save cents. Not only have my SIGG bottles proven indefinitely reusable, but they also are BPA- and phthalate-free and impart no odor or taste.

That creates appeal for wine drinkers. At 0.6 liters (20.29 ounces), it's just shy of a bottle of wine. So pop the cork and enjoy a healthy sample. Then fill the SIGG and take it outdoors or slip it in your backpack without fear of breaking glass. Once empty, just rinse with water.

The latest line of SIGG bottles ($22) comes in 12 colors. In my opinion, the elegant Rainbow Red and Rainbow White look the best. Go to mysigg.com.