Abstract: A holder securing a bottle or other container releasably in a package. The holder has a raised platform with an opening therein conforming to the shape of the bottle at its lower portion. The sides of the opening engage the bottle in an interference or friction fit. Preferably, at the height of the opening, the bottle sides slope downwardly and outwardly. A base extends across the bottom of the platform supporting the bottom of the bottle. The base can be a part of the outer package, preferably a transparent box, folded around the holder and the bottle. The method of packaging the bottle, using the holder, includes placing the holder over the bottle, forcing the holder downward toward the bottom of the bottle, and affixing the base to the holder with the bottle bottom resting on the base.