New wine in an old bottle

/njˈuː wˈaɪn ɪn ɐn ˈəʊld bˈɒtəl/

/nˈuː wˈaɪn ɪn ɐn ˈoʊld bˈɑːɾəl/

new wine in an old bottle

PHRASE

used to refer to the attempt to introduce something new or innovative into an existing, outdated, or incompatible system, which may lead to problems or failure

new wine in an old bottle definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "new wine in an old bottle" and when to use it?

The idiom "new wine in an old bottle" originates from a metaphor used by Jesus in the New Testament of the Bible, illustrating that new ideas or teachings cannot fit or thrive within old, inflexible structures. It is used to emphasize the need for compatible frameworks to accommodate innovation and change.

used to refer to presenting or marketing something as if it is old or traditional when, in reality, it is a new or contemporary creation

Example

The political candidate's promises sounded like old-fashioned values, but many suspected it was just new wine in an old bottle to appeal to a wider audience.