The latest issue of the Australian Journal of Grape and Wine Research highlights the risks associated with wineries using synthetic corks for wines intended to be kept for more than 12 months storage prior to opening. The exhaustive and ongoing trial conducted by the AWRI whose first findings are covered in this journal endorses most brands of artificial closure over a 6-12 month timeframe, but casts significant doubt over their ability to successfully preserve wine for longer. So, for a reliable long-term seal, we’re effectively back to a choice between quality corks and screwcaps. On this note, a substantial number of New Zealand wines are following the lead of fifteen Clare Valley winemakers in choosing to seal at least part of their 2001 production with screwcap closures. Wineries including Lawson’s Dry Hills, Forrest Estate, Foxes Island, Kumeu River, Trinity Hill, Wither Hills, Matua Valley, Framingham, Seresin Estate and Jackson Estate have taken up the cause. Stelvin closure champion, Jeff Grosset, is delighted.
