October 27th, 2023
The Truth About Screw Cap Wines
When it comes to sealing a wine bottle, there are two contenders: screw caps and cork. Each has its loyal fan base and vehement detractors, sparking debates in the world of wine. But why do some producers opt for one over the other? Let’s delve into this cork versus screw cap comparison, shedding light on the environmental aspects, the influence on wine quality, and the moments when I personally discovered the charm of screw cap wines.
What Does A Cork Do For Wine?
First, let’s address the age-old tradition of cork stoppers. For centuries, cork has been the go-to material for sealing wine bottles. It has an undeniable aura of elegance and timelessness that’s synonymous with the world of fine wine. However, there’s more to cork than its aesthetic appeal. Cork stoppers have historically been chosen because they allow for a tiny amount of oxygen to interact with the wine over time, which can help in the aging process, especially for certain styles of wine like reds that benefit from slow, controlled oxidation.
Yet, the use of cork comes at an environmental cost. Cork is harvested from cork oak trees, and the process of extracting cork involves stripping the bark, which can only be done every 9 to 12 years. This means that it takes a considerable amount of time for cork oak trees to regenerate and provide more cork. In an age where sustainability and eco-friendliness are at the forefront of consumers’ minds, this raises questions about the long-term viability of cork closures.
Screw Cap Wine Has It’s Benefits
On the other side of the ring stands the relatively modern contender: the screw cap. This closure option, originally associated with inexpensive wines, has gained traction among quality wine producers. One of its primary advantages is consistency. Screw caps provide an airtight seal that virtually eliminates the risk of cork taint, a defect caused by a compound known as TCA that can ruin a wine’s aroma and flavor. This reliability has led many producers to embrace screw caps as a way to ensure that the wine inside the bottle tastes exactly as it should.
Moreover, screw caps are more accessible and convenient for consumers. No need for a corkscrew or the anxiety-inducing moment when the cork crumbles into your glass. Just a simple twist, and the wine is ready to be enjoyed. This ease of use has made screw caps particularly popular for everyday wines and those intended for early consumption.
Are Screw Caps Better Than Corks?
Now, let’s talk about which types of wines are better suited for screw caps. While screw caps were once reserved for wines meant to be drunk young, their acceptance has grown, and they are now used for a broader range of styles. Whites, rosés, and some light reds are particularly well-suited to screw caps, as they generally do not benefit from extended aging or controlled oxygen exposure. The freshness and fruitiness of these wines can be better preserved with airtight screw cap closures.
As for my own experience with screw cap wines, I was initially skeptical. I had always associated screw caps with cheap and cheerful wines, and I couldn’t quite shake the notion that a screw cap might somehow cheapen the wine inside. However, a few years ago, I had a revelatory moment during a wine tasting event. I tried a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand that was sealed with a screw cap, and it completely shattered my preconceptions. The wine was vibrant, with tropical fruit aromas, and had an unmistakable acidity. It was a perfect example of a wine that was meant to be enjoyed young. The screw cap had preserved its freshness impeccably. This experience made me reconsider my stance on screw caps. I realized that they have a valid place in the world of wine, particularly for wines meant to be consumed young and fresh. The absence of cork taint and the convenience of opening a bottle without a corkscrew can be significant advantages.
The battle between screw caps and cork closures continues to rage on in the wine world. Each has its merits and drawbacks, and the choice often depends on the wine producer’s goals, the style of wine they are making, and the environmental considerations they take into account. While cork may have a rich tradition, screw caps are proving themselves as a practical and reliable alternative, especially for wines meant for early enjoyment. The key is to keep an open mind and judge each wine by its individual character rather than its closure. After all, it’s the liquid inside the bottle that truly matters.
Shaunna and Shayla are the two sisters behind Wine Spencer, a contemporary wine brand that exists to inspire people to decant and appreciate the taste of wine. The two fell in love with wine early and chose to pursue WSET Level 2 sommelier certifications. Both were eager to share their passion with the world, so they joined forces, naming their new venture in the tradition of their father, grandfather, and great grandfather’s name ‘Spencer.’ It is a name that denotes stewardship, guidance, protection, and cherishing. Both sisters have a strong desire to redefine what wine means and give it a modern significance. Their focus is providing the wine novice and the oenophile an opportunity to create bespoke wine experiences. This article has been revised from a version written in 2020.