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The best for sparkling wines
Sustainable and natural choice
Originating from Portuguese cork forests
TCA level checked
Lasting choice
Seals airtight
Need answers? We’ve got you covered!
WHAT WINES ARE VEGA STOPPERS SUITED FOR?
VEGA stoppers are specifically designed for sealing sparkling wines, such as champagne, cava, or prosecco. Their cork granules ensure a tight seal for your wine bottles.
CAN THESE STOPPERS BE USED FOR STILL WINES?
No, these stoppers are intended for sparkling wines. For still wines, SELO and UNIQ corks would be more suitable as they are made with specific properties for that purpose.
WHAT SIZE ARE VEGA SPARKLING WINE STOPPERS?
All four VEGA models have the same dimensions, with a size of 48 × 30.5 mm.
HOW DO VEGA MODELS DIFFER?
The models vary slightly in the granule size and consistency.
They also differ in their technical details:
- The length tolerance for VEGA1 and VEGA2 is +/- 0.5 mm, while VEGA3 and VEGA4 have a tolerance of +/- 1.0 mm.
- Diameter tolerance for VEGA1 and VEGA2 is +/- 0.3 mm, compared to +/- 0.5 mm for VEGA3 and VEGA4.
- VEGA1 and VEGA2 can absorb up to 25%, whereas VEGA3 and VEGA4 can absorb up to 20%.
- TCA release also differs: VEGA1 and VEGA2 can release ≤ 1.5 ng/L, while VEGA3 and VEGA4 ≤ 0.9 ng/L.
WHAT IS THE TCA LEVEL IN THIS BOTTLE CORK FOR SPARKLING WINES?
The TCA level in VEGA1 and VEGA2 models is capped at 1.5 ng/L, while in VEGA3 and VEGA4, it’s up to 0.9 ng/L. VEGA stoppers undergo strict TCA testing.
WHY DOES TCA MATTER FOR WINE STOPPERS?
TCA is a compound that can give wine an undesirable “corky” taste. However, even if it occurs, the wine remains safe to drink – it affects only the taste and aroma, not the safety.
The lower the TCA, the less likely the wine will develop cork taint. For the best flavour, opt for stoppers with low TCA levels.
DO NATURAL CORK STOPPERS LET WINE BREATHE?
Yes, natural cork has tiny air pockets that allow a minimal amount of air to enter the bottle. This helps the wine age and develop more complex flavours.
Natural cork allows the wine to breathe just enough to mature without losing quality, unlike cheaper stoppers that can allow too much air in.
HOW SHOULD WINE WITH NATURAL CORK BE STORED?
Bottles sealed with natural cork should be stored horizontally to keep the cork moist and prevent it from drying out, which could result in air seeping into the bottle. Store them in a cool, dark place with stable temperatures between 10 and 15°C.
WHAT CONDITIONS SHOULD BE AVOIDED WHEN STORING WINE?
Avoid storing bottles in direct sunlight as it can spoil the wine’s taste. It’s also wise to avoid areas with fluctuating temperatures.
HOW ARE VEGA STOPPERS MADE?
VEGA stoppers are crafted from sustainable natural cork. They are formed from high-quality cork granules, providing the flexibility and durability needed for sparkling wines.
The stoppers are created using cork that is safe for food contact, and they do not contain recycled or genetically modified materials.
IS NATURAL CORK VEGAN-FRIENDLY?
Yes, cork is harvested from the bark of the cork oak tree without any harm to the tree and does not involve any animal products. It is a fully natural and environmentally friendly material.
A high-quality sparkling wine stopper is more than just a closure. It may seem simple, but it plays a key role in maintaining your wine’s taste and quality.
#1 KEEPS YOUR SPARKLING WINE FRESH
For sparkling wine corks, it’s essential they meet several key requirements to ensure the wine remains fresh.
An airtight seal is crucial, and that’s where natural cork excels. It keeps the wine carbonated by retaining the gas inside. Without this seal, the bubbles would escape, and the wine would lose its sparkle.
Flexibility is also important. Natural cork fits snugly into the bottleneck, adjusting as needed.
Lastly, natural cork allows the right amount of air to pass through, helping the wine develop in the bottle while preserving its flavour.
#2 REDUCED TCA LEVELS WITH NATURAL CORK
A high-quality cork stopper for sparkling wine should have minimal TCA content. High levels of TCA can result in a musty taste, which is often found in lower-quality corks. Our stoppers have low TCA, reducing this risk significantly.
What does this mean for you? When you open the bottle, your wine will retain its natural taste and aroma, without any unpleasant surprises.
#3 PROVIDES A TIGHT SEAL
A secure seal is essential for sparkling wine stoppers. VEGA stoppers are made from high-quality cork granules, ensuring consistency in structure.
This allows natural cork to form a tighter seal, maintaining the pressure in the bottle, which is especially important for sparkling wines.
#4 A SUSTAINABLE, ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIAL
Natural cork is one of the most sustainable materials available. The bark is harvested without harming the tree, which continues to grow and absorb CO2. The process can be repeated every 9 to 12 years.
Additionally, cork is fully biodegradable and recyclable. By choosing cork, you are supporting sustainable practices and contributing to the preservation of the environment.
#5 ADDS ELEGANCE TO YOUR WINE
Natural cork is a symbol of elegance that enhances the overall wine experience. Its unique texture and light, natural colour bring a touch of luxury to any bottle.
Opening a bottle with a natural cork is more than just a step in enjoying the wine – it’s part of the ritual. The cork represents tradition, care, and respect for the environment.
#6 HAND-HARVESTED BY SKILLED ARTISANS
By choosing natural cork, you’re supporting both sustainable practices and local communities. In places like Portugal, cork harvesting has been an artisan tradition for centuries.
The process of harvesting cork requires great care and skill. Every 9 to 12 years, artisans carefully peel the bark by hand, ensuring the tree is not harmed and can continue to grow and produce cork for future harvests. This practice preserves both the environment and a long-standing tradition.
| Size | 48 × 30,5 mm |
| Length Tolerance | +/- 1,0 mm |
| Diameter Tolerance | +/- 0,5 mm |
| Moisture | 4% < HR < 8% |
| Density | 240 - 320 kg/m³ |
| Absorption | ≤ 20% |
| Dust | ≤ 2 mg |
| Cutting Voltage | ≥ 6 daN/cm² |
| Torsion Angle | ≥ 35 ° |
| Resistance To Boiling Water | No Breakdown |
| Releaseable TCA | ≤ 0,9 ng/L |
| Sensory Analysis | Neutral |
| Oxidants | ≤ 0,1 mg |
