WiLLMES launches the world's first pneumatic press, known as the tube press.
Produced from 1951 - 1980
Patent no.: 977234
Another innovation follows: the world's first hermetically sealed pneumatic tank press with half membrane and horizontal juice channels.
Produced from 1976 - 2003
Patent no.: P1046082
The world's first tank press with double diaphragm and vertical juice channels made of slotted stainless steel is launched. Later known as MERLIN.
Produced from 1985 - today
Patent no.: P0145948
The innovation continues: the world's first hermetically sealed press with vertical juice channels with stainless steel slotted sieves, double membrane and central juice outlet.
Produced from 2000 - 2012
Patent no.: EP01925534.8-2316
And today WiLLMES is still the innovation leader, with the world's first hermetically sealed press withvertical Flexidrain juice channels with flexible high-performance fabric, double membrane, central juice drain and all options for modern wine processing. Scalable for all performance requirements.
Produced from 2003 - today
Patent no.: EP1438185
Armbruster introduced the first continuous grape destemming machines, setting new standards in grape processing.
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Development of the first destemmer built with stainless steel housings.
Launch of the ROTOVIB series, introducing vibration-based destemming technology and gentle grape handling.
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Introduction of roller sorters, expanding precision sorting capabilities.
Breakthrough optical sorting solutions with GRAPESORT and the double roller sorter ROTOVIB 2RS.
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Continued software and mechanical advancements, including adjustable roller spacing and next-generation optical sorting.
Although we evolved independently, our paths have converged through a shared philosophy: gentle fruit processing, technical precision, and uncompromising quality. Today, we work together to serve the US market, combining our strengths in press technology, destemming, and optical sorting to support winemakers across the entire grape processing chain—from grape reception to pressing.
Built on decades of German engineering excellence, our partnership reflects a deep commitment to quality, reliability, and innovation. What began as two pioneering companies has grown into a strong, forward-looking collaboration rooted in tradition and driven by continuous technological development. United by a clear vision, we deliver integrated, future-ready solutions designed to meet the highest demands of modern winemaking and to support wineries in achieving outstanding results today and in the future
