Introducing our new blog series: Myth of the Month. Wine is an ever-evolving subject which means there is always something new to learn about it. This blog series will unravel these myths and help you deepen your knowledge about your favorite beverage!

For our first Myth of the Month, we uncork the truth behind the belief that screw caps are inferior to their cork counterparts. Find out the difference in these closure methods, and why so many wineries are putting their trust in the twist off tops.

The cherished ritual and iconic sound of popping a cork, may contribute to this belief. The joyous sound signals a celebratory moment and represents a rich tradition. Cork closures have been used for centuries, dating back to 3000 BC where they were found ancient Egyptian tombs. However, as the wine industry evolves, screw cap closures are becoming increasingly more common. South of the equator, both New Zealand and Australia advocated for the switch to twist off lids.

Corks can be beneficial for aging due to their slow oxygen transfer to the bottle, which can soften young tannins and further develop a wine’s aromas and flavor. However, corks are a natural product which means there is a possibility for quality issues. They can be inconsistent, which can in turn negatively impact the wine. 

On the other hand, screw caps prevent any oxygen exposure to the wine. Safeguarding the integrity of the wine, preserving flavors and aromas. Additionally, the ability to store upright and easily open are added benefits for screw cap wine.

Adam Puchta Winery in Hermann has recently transitioned to screw caps for many of their wines, primarily due to quality control concerns. Inconsistent cork quality not only jeopardized the wines' integrity but also added undue costs. Parker Puchta, the 7th Generation President, shared, “Screw caps on the other hand, offer, offer remarkable consistency and cost-efficiency, making them ideal for wines designed to be enjoyed within a few years. Additionally, they enhance our brand recognition—featuring a modern look that stands out on the shelf and eliminates the need for a corkscrew, making many of our wines more accessible to consumers and easy for staff during festivals. However, we still love the romantic appeal of a cork when it pops."

Overall, both corks and screw caps have their place in the wine industry. Even though screw caps are a relatively new arrival, the new technology has solved a century-old problem. 

Let us know what wine myth you want us to check out next!