Exploring the resurgence of cork in the wine industry, discussing its decline in the 1990s, environmental benefits, and how supermarkets are reducing wine packaging. The podcast also delves into the process of harvesting cork in Portugal, the various uses of cork in industries, and the ongoing debate between cork and screw caps in the wine industry.
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Quick takeaways
Cork is making a comeback in the wine industry due to the removal of cork taint and its sustainability benefits.
Portugal is the largest producer of cork and its industry is thriving, with exports reaching record levels.
Deep dives
Cork's resurgence in the wine industry
Cork, once replaced by screw caps and synthetic cork, is making a comeback in the wine industry. The removal of the chemical compound TCA that caused cork taint has significantly reduced the likelihood of corked wine, leading to renewed interest in cork as a material. Sustainability concerns and the carbon-negative nature of cork products have also contributed to its growing popularity.
The cork industry in Portugal
Portugal is the largest producer of cork, accounting for more than a third of the world's cork trees. The process of harvesting cork requires skill and expertise to avoid damaging the tree, and the industry ensures that minimal waste is produced. The Portuguese cork industry is thriving, with exports reaching record levels, and the demand for cork is growing faster than the overall wine market.
Pros and cons of cork versus screw caps
While screw caps provide convenience and ease of use, many consumers still have an affinity for cork due to its traditional association with wine. The industry has made significant improvements in addressing the issue of cork taint, and with the removal of TCA as a major problem, there is potential for cork to regain popularity. However, it is unlikely that cork will reclaim its dominant position in the market, as alternative packaging formats like boxes and cans gain traction.
The humble wine cork, once the main way to stop a bottle of wine, had its market share decimated in the 1990’s when screw caps were favoured. However, the problem of 'corked' wine has been almost completely solved and cork is recognised as a more sustainable, if slightly less convenient material for wine makers to use.
In this episode we visit the world’s largest cork producing region in Portugal to find out more about how the cork industry has hit the good times once again. We explore which wines taste better with cork and how supermarkets are cutting down on wine packaging.