So I just got back from the cork forest in Portugal. It made a big impression on me. And just so you have full disclosure on this: a cork company paid for me to go. I learned a lot and think they have a very strong case to make about the importance, tradition and history of oak.

Here are a couple of important thing you may not know about cork:

1) The cork harvest doesn’t harm the trees but removes their outer layers (every nine years).
2) Cork forests are good for the environment and prevent arid countries in North Africa from being desserts.
3) Some cork closures can cost less than a screwcap.
4) Cork producers are working very hard, and succeeding per my own experience as well as their research, in reducing cork taint.
5) Wines under screwcap can suffer from “reduction,” i.e. a reduced flavor profile with less fruit and expressivity. I had experienced it but couldn’t wrap my head around an explanation.

Save Miquel is an ad campaign the cork company Amorim launched in Australia to get the folks Down Under to see the light. It features American comedian Rob Schneider in his search to find Miquel the cork tree and save him.

Above you can see the corks that fueled the campaign and yours truly in the Alentejo with a stand-in for Miquel.

My Examiner.com column has gotten quite a bit of response, both pro-cork and otherwise. I intend to follow up on it and welcome your feedback.
Salud,

Liza the Wine Chick