Screw Caps
Screw caps have become a popular alternative to natural cork in wine regions throughout the world. Proponents point to the sizable amount of wine that is spoiled by TCA taint. Detractors respond that screw caps completely seal the wine from oxidation, thus restricting the benefits of age.
Screw Caps Decreases the Likelihood of getting a Corked Wine
Those who favor traditional cork look at screw caps as indicating lesser-quality. They argue that TCA taint is rarer with high quality natural corks. Marketing and perception certainly are part of the debate. Although I do not agree with them, I think that the average wine consumer views screw caps as being cheap.
This is unfortunate, because wines that are meant to be consumed young are perfect for screw caps. These negative views may change as more wineries begin using this alternative bottling technique, at least for some of their production.
Owned by the Sobon Family, Shenandoah Vineyards and Sobon Estate are well known Sierra Foothills producers that recently began using screw caps for all of their wines. Tom Quinn, a spokesman for the sister wineries, stated, “Nevermore will cork taint come between a wine lover and their wine! It’s all about the wine.” Clearly there are strong opinions on both sides of this issue.
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