I haven't gotten better bottles, though I've been thinking about it. if hard handling is the cause, you might consider using a plastic milk crate as a holder. I've done that with my carboys for years, so it wouldn't be a big deal. makes them easier to pick up, handle, move, set down on concrete, keep them from banging each other. certainly more critical with glass carboys, but maybe a good idea for the better bottles as well.