Brits Thumbs Down Screwcap Wines

Filed in archive Wine News on May 9, 2007

In the never-ending saga of the wine cork versus the screwcap we have a new group added to the mix. This time it's Britain versus New Zealand, and the Brits are giving them the thumbs down when it comes to sans the cork. From BRITISH MEDIA DUMPS ON NEW ZEALAND WINE:

British consumers are being warned against New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc closed with screwcaps by the mass circulation Daily Mail newspaper. In a story that features environment damaging packaging, the newspaper identifies Nobilo Five Fathoms Sauvignon Blanc for, "packing and environmental offences, and other crimes".

Recommending that wine drinkers avoid buying this particular wine, and others like it, failure to use cork is considered a negative environmental impact.

The plastic cap and seal can't be recycled and it's not necessary to have both, as the screw-off cap needs to be broken open before use. The trend towards plastic caps or corks is damaging the environment. Cork - which is just bark from a tree - is far more environmentally friendly. Cork plantations also provide great habitats for wildlife, help to stop soil erosion and trap rainfall. But these plantations are being cut down as more wine bottlers turn to plastic.

The newspaper also cites the long distance travelled from wine producer to market as another reason to avoid buying this wine. Instead it recommends why not buy a Sauvignon Blanc from our near neighbour, France instead.