The Cap on Wine and Its Impact on Preservation

It's not uncommon to find those caps on beer bottles, which can make it tricky to keep once open. But have you ever noticed that similar caps are used for wine, especially for sparkling wines? This article delves into the significance of caps on wine, their effectiveness in preservation, and whether they are a suitable alternative to more traditional corks.

Why Use Caps on Wine?

The crown cap has proven to be the best closure for wine that is not meant to age or mature. Unlike corks, which can dry out and let the wine oxidize, or leak, which can compromise the taste, the crown cap is common across various beverages such as cider, soda, beer, and mineral water.

Problems with Corks

The cork can dry out, leading to oxidation Corks can leak, causing premature spoilage Corks can infect the wine with TCA (trichloroanisole), causing an off-flavor You might not always have a corkscrew handy Corks are more expensive than alternatives

The Rise of Screw Cap Closures

Stelvin screw cap closures have gained acceptance in the wine industry and have improved over time. However, they can still cause a reduction in the wine's aroma and flavor. It's recommended to transfer the remaining wine to a smaller container to minimize oxygen exposure. An inert gas like argon can also be useful in slowing this process.

The Debate Over Caps on Wine

Caps are more often seen on inexpensive sparkling wines due to their unique needs. For these wines, re-capping is difficult due to the size and flaring bases of the corks required. Silicone or rubber stoppers can be used, but they won't keep the wine's pressure for long. It's generally advisable to drink sparkling wines within a day.

Still Wines and Caps

For still wines, there are better options available. Many wines are now packaged with screw tops, which are just as good as corks and can be re-capped. Additionally, wines are increasingly being sold in boxes, which allow for air-tight preservation and can be enjoyed over an extended period without spoilage.

Additional Tips for Wine Preservation

For those who wish to explore wine preservation further, a book titled To Cork or Not to Cork: The Age of Wine and the Art of Preservation offers an in-depth look at wine closures over the centuries. This quick read provides valuable insights into the effectiveness and appropriateness of different closures for various types of wine.

When dealing with wine that you'd like to keep, it's important to ensure proper preservation. The right closure can make a significant difference in maintaining the quality and flavor of the wine long after it's been opened.