Diam cork is considered natural as it is made from natural cork. Natural cork is obtained from the bark of cork oak trees, which are primarily found in Mediterranean countries like Portugal, Spain, and Italy. The process of extracting cork from the tree involves carefully removing the outer bark without damaging the tree itself. This process does not harm the tree, and it continues to grow and regenerate its bark, making cork a renewable resource.
Diam closures, which are made by the Diamant system of cork purification, utilize natural cork as the main material. However, what sets Diam corks apart from traditional corks is the purification process they undergo. The Diamant system removes certain compounds, such as trichloroanisole (TCA), which can be responsible for cork taint, a common issue that affects wine stored with traditional corks.
The Diamant system of cork purification uses very little energy compared to alternative types of cork production. This is because the process mainly involves cleaning and purifying the natural cork, rather than heavily manipulating or treating it. The energy consumption is kept low, making it a more sustainable option.
In my experience as a sommelier, I have come across various types of closures, including natural corks, synthetic corks, screw caps, and Diam corks. While each closure has its own advantages and disadvantages, Diam cork has gained popularity in recent years due to its ability to provide a reliable seal and minimize the risk of cork taint.
The use of Diam corks also ensures consistency in the aging process of wines. With traditional corks, there is always a small chance of cork taint, which can negatively impact the quality of the wine. By using Diam corks, winemakers can have more control over the aging process and reduce the risk of spoilage.
Furthermore, Diam corks offer a similar aesthetic appeal to traditional corks. They maintain the classic look and feel of a natural cork, allowing consumers to experience the traditional ritual of uncorking a bottle while providing the added benefits of a purified closure.
Diam cork is a natural product that undergoes a purification process to enhance its performance and reduce the risk of cork taint. It is a sustainable option that uses minimal energy during production. As a sommelier and brewer, I appreciate the reliability and consistency that Diam corks bring to the world of wine closures.