Frequently asked questions (FAQ) - TECVINO
About preservation systems
What is TECVINO and what solutions does it offer?
TECVINO is a trademark of Wide Tech Development that develops innovative systems for the preservation of still and sparkling wines, allowing them to remain fresh as if they had just been opened for more than 25 days.
What is the difference between PCONSWINE and PCONSCAVA?
- PCONSWINE is designed for still wines and works with food-grade Argon gas, which protects the wine without altering its taste.
- PCONSCAVA is for sparkling wines and uses pressurised CO₂ to maintain effervescence and prevent loss of bubbles.
Is the use of these gases expensive?
- PCONSWINE uses Argon. One cylinder of this gas lasts for about 350 bottles of wine, so the cost of use per glass served is estimated at less than 0.02 €, depending slightly on how the system is used.
- PCONSCAVA uses CO2.
With the new PACK series models, gas cylinders are used to carbonate water, giving approximately 50 bottles of sparkling wine per gas cylinder. The cost of gas for sparkling wines is estimated to be less than 0.06 € per glass.
In the MINI PACK series with 16 g CO2 bottles the estimated cost is as low as about 0.06 € per glass served.
How does PACK MINI differ from PACK PRO?
- PACK MINI is a portable system designed for small consumers or professionals who want to taste sparkling wines without waste. It works with disposable CO₂ cartridges.
- PACK PRO is a more advanced version, designed for professionals, with optional electronics that optimise preservation and allow for more precise control.
How do the special closures work?
The closures are specifically designed for each preservation system. In the case of sparkling wines, they allow to maintain the internal pressure of the bottle and guarantee the freshness of the wine for more than 25 days.
In a similar way and for a similar length of time, the special stoppers for still wines ensure that air contact with the wine is kept to a minimum and that the wine retains its qualities.
Use and compatibility
What type of gas is used in each system?
- PCONSWINE uses Argon gas with a purity of over 99.99% and food quality.
- PCONSCAVA and PACK systems use CO₂ also food grade. With the differential characteristic of injecting CO2 under pressure to maintain the bubbles typical of sparkling wine.
Are the gas cylinders included in the purchase?
No. Argon and CO₂ gas cylinders must be purchased separately from their manufacturers. TECVINO does not supply the gases directly, but provides information on refilling.
How long does a gas cylinder last?
- A cylinder of argon can hold around 350 bottles of still wine.
- A standard CO₂ cylinder in PCONSCAVA can store more than 50 bottles of sparkling wine.
- In the PACK MINI, a 16 g cartridge can hold more than 2 bottles, depending on usage.
How do I use the PCONSCAVA system?
1. Insert the PCONSCAVA Sparkling Cap into the bottle after pouring a glass.
2. To pour a glass from a bottle with the stopper in place, press lightly on the top protrusion of the stopper to release a small amount of gas before removing the stopper.
3. On tabletop models, hold the bottle with one hand and hold it in the refill station for 6-7 seconds, depending on the remaining liquid.
How to install a new CO₂ cylinder?
1. Hold the PCONSCAVA and the cylinder in an upright position.
2. Remove the protective plastic from the cylinder head.
3. Remove the cover from the conservator column.
4. If a cylinder is installed, rotate it counterclockwise to remove it.
5. Fit the new cylinder and turn it securely without using tools.
6. If gas still leaks after adjustment, unscrew the cylinder and repeat the process.
Availability and purchase
Where can I buy TECVINO storage systems?
TECVINO has two product lines for sparkling wines, PACK and PACK MINI.
The first is aimed at professionals, and is sold in Spain through a specialised distributor, while for foreign customers it is sold through the TECVINO website.
The PACK MINI is sold through the website and also through various distributors.
The product for still wines, PCONSWINE is only sold in Spain due to the difficulty of finding Argon gas cylinders outside the country.
Can I customise my equipment?
Yes, TECVINO offers customisation options for customers who wish to print their logo or design on the front or base of the devices.
Maintenance and safety
How do I keep the system in optimum condition?
- Keep the components free of dirt.
- Avoid accidental knocks on the Sparkling and Still Stoppers to prevent gas leakage.
- On low rotation bottles, reinforce pressurisation periodically.
- Stoppers can be washed with water free of salt and mineral residues.
What are the safety precautions with CO₂ cylinders?
- Keep them at room temperature and away from heat sources.
- They can be stored lying down if necessary.
- Do not use Quick Connect type cylinders, they must be threaded (TR21.4 if purchased outside the EU).
Warranty and support
What is the warranty on the PCONSCAVA system and PCONSWINE?
Both have a 3 year warranty from the date of purchase, covering the replacement of defective parts (except in cases of misuse).
How to request a repair?
1. Send the defective component to the manufacturer in suitable packaging (damage due to unsuitable packaging is the responsibility of the customer).
2. CO₂ cylinders will not be accepted in shipments, even empty ones.
3. The shipment of the component must be authorised by the manufacturer prior to shipment.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us - at TECVINO we are here to help you preserve the freshness of your wines! 🍷✨