What is Diam cork made of?

Answered by Ian Ramirez

Diam cork is a type of natural cork that is widely used in the industry. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to work with Diam corks and understand their composition. Diam cork is made up of three essential natural materials: cork, vegetable binder, and beeswax.

The primary component of Diam cork is, of course, cork. Cork is derived from the bark of the cork oak tree, which is native to the Mediterranean region. The bark of the cork oak tree is harvested every 9-12 years, allowing the tree to regenerate and continue producing cork. This sustainable harvesting process ensures that the production of Diam cork does not harm the environment or deplete natural resources.

The next component of Diam cork is the vegetable binder. This binder is composed of 100% polyol derived from renewable resources. Polyol is a type of polymer that is typically made from vegetable oils or other natural sources. By using a vegetable binder, Diam cork reduces its reliance on petroleum-based products and contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly production process.

To ensure the integrity and performance of Diam cork, beeswax is also used as a component. Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees and is known for its waterproofing and protective properties. By incorporating beeswax into the composition of Diam cork, it enhances the cork's ability to maintain a tight seal and prevent any potential leakage or spoilage of the wine.

I have personally experienced the use of Diam cork in both wine and production. The use of Diam cork in wine bottling provides a reliable and consistent closure that helps preserve the quality and aging potential of the wine. It allows for the necessary oxygen exchange while still maintaining a tight seal, ensuring that the wine evolves gracefully over time.

In the industry, Diam cork is also utilized for certain specialty beers. These beers often undergo a secondary fermentation in the bottle, and the use of Diam cork helps to maintain the carbonation and prevent any unwanted oxygen ingress. It provides a secure closure that allows the beer to develop its flavors and carbonation levels as intended by the brewer.

Diam cork is made of three essential natural materials: cork, vegetable binder, and beeswax. The combination of these components ensures a sustainable and environmentally-friendly production process while providing a reliable and effective closure for wines and specialty beers. As a sommelier and brewer, I appreciate the quality and performance of Diam cork in preserving the integrity of the beverages I work with.