- Cork has a long history with wine and has been used as the sealing method of choice for over 400 years.
- Cork can be compressed easily so has an excellent anti-slip property.
- It allows the passage of oxygen into the bottle allowing the wine to breathe whilst it is maturing.
- Cork has an image of quality.
- It is a renewable resource since only the bark is removed from the cork tree.
- Cork makes a satisfying 'pop' when removed from the bottle.
- It is is biodegradable.
- Cork supports an entire industry of corkscrews and other products.
- Cork can cause problems with the wine such as TCA.
- It can be difficult to remove, and sometimes break off into the bottle.
- Cork is becoming more expensive
Technical Cork covers closures made from reconstituted cork which is bonded together. There are various types made and it behaves in a similar manner to natural cork. It tends to be used in relatively inexpensive wine.