Practical aspects of wine corkage (English edition) by Christan Alegoet, Jean-Michel Riboulet | Oenoplurimédia

"Practical Aspects of Wine Corkage," authored by Christan Alegoet and Jean-Michel Riboulet, is a comprehensive exploration of the technical and chemical processes involved in wine corkage. This essential guidebook delves into the intricate relationship between glass, cork, and bottling, highlighting the importance of cork’s role in wine preservation.

Preface

The evolution of oenology has led to exceptional advances in wine quality. However, bottling remains a critical phase where wine’s potential can be compromised if not handled properly. One of the most vital steps is corking, where the use of cork, renowned for its elastic properties, helps maintain the wine’s integrity during aging. This book, combining research and industry expertise, presents solutions to common bottling challenges. Co-authors Alegoet and Riboulet bring decades of hands-on experience in cork production and glass manufacturing.

Chapter Highlights

Chapter I - Glass and the Bottle

• The historical evolution of bottling glass and its physical properties.
• Manufacturing techniques, from molding to surface treatment, and the importance of bottle neck tolerances in ensuring proper corking.

Chapter II - Cork and Corking

• An in-depth analysis of cork’s chemical structure and its unique properties that influence wine.
• Detailed explanations of cork harvesting and manufacturing processes, from plank treatment to surface treatment, marking, and packaging. The book also highlights the growing role of synthetic corks and their comparison with natural cork.

Chapter III - Corking Machinery

• The mechanics behind corking machines, including compression types and innovations such as vacuum corking and the use of CO2.
• Essential maintenance tips and machine optimization techniques to ensure consistent results.

Chapter IV - Corkage Operations

• Guidance on quality control during bottle and cork reception.
• Step-by-step instructions on managing bottle filling levels, cork placement, and how temperature variations affect the cork and wine inside the bottle. This chapter provides a wealth of practical advice for avoiding issues like cork expansion or internal bottle pressure.

Chapter V - Capsuling and Screw Capping

• The evolution of outer coverings for wine bottles, from traditional cork caps to modern metallic screw caps.
• Insights into the consumer perception of screw caps and their growing acceptance in the wine industry.

Chapter VI - Technical Difficulties in Corkage

• Solutions to common corking problems, such as cork dust, difficulties in cork extraction, and cork faults that affect wine’s organoleptic properties.
• A thorough review of the infamous "cork taint", including research on trichloroanisole (TCA), the compound responsible for the off-flavors often associated with faulty corks.

Conclusion

"Practical Aspects of Wine Corkage" is an indispensable resource for oenologists, winemakers, and wine technicians. It offers practical solutions to the myriad challenges faced during bottling, with a clear focus on maintaining the highest quality throughout the wine aging process. Whether you are seeking to improve your knowledge of cork's impact on wine or aiming to refine your bottling techniques, this book provides both technical depth and real-world insight.

Technical Details:

• ISBN: 978-2-905428-07-3
• Publisher: Oenoplurimedia
• Publication Date: August 1994
• Pages: 282
• Dimensions: 21.5 x 15.5 cm
• Language: English

This book is essential for professionals looking to deepen their understanding of the science and practicality of corkage in winemaking.