Overview
ISO 4710:2000 defines the characteristics and requirements for cylindrical cork stoppers specifically designed for sparkling wines and gasified wines. Developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), this standard supports the global wine industry by specifying the properties, dimensions, and quality standards that ensure cork stoppers offer effective sealing and help preserve the organoleptic qualities (aroma, taste, and effervescence) of sparkling and gasified wines. The standard applies to both agglomerated cork stoppers with natural cork discs and solely agglomerated cork stoppers, aiming to enhance product consistency and consumer confidence.
Key Topics
Types of Cork Stoppers
- Agglomerated cork stoppers with natural cork discs: These feature a body of agglomerated cork with one to three discs of natural cork attached to one end. The discs act as the primary interface with the wine, ensuring compatibility with the organoleptic properties of sparkling wines.
- Agglomerated cork stoppers: Consist solely of agglomerated cork without natural cork discs and are permitted only for use in certain gasified wines, not traditional sparkling wines.
Material and Finish Requirements
- Cork must be sourced from clean, dust-free material free from extraneous particles.
- Natural cork discs should be carefully selected to avoid defects that might impact the wine's sensory profile.
- The external finish includes polished and perpendicular surfaces with the option for a uniform chamfer (typically 3.5 mm to 5 mm).
Dimensional Standards
- Standard dimensions for most bottle types: length typically between 47 mm and 48 mm, diameter from 29 mm to 31 mm.
- Tolerances are tight to ensure an optimal fit with standardized wine bottles.
Packaging, Marking, and Storage
- Corks are packed in strong, ventilated packages; if treated with antiseptics, hermetically sealed packages are required.
- Packages must be clearly marked with manufacturer details, buyer code, destination, stopper dimensions, and quantity.
- All cork stoppers should be stored in clean, dry, and ventilated environments to preserve quality before bottling.
Applications
ISO 4710:2000 is directly applicable to:
- Sparkling wine producers: To guarantee that their products are sealed with reliable, standardized corks, preserving wine quality and safety.
- Cork stopper manufacturers: Provides essential guidelines for material selection, manufacturing processes, and dimensional specifications.
- Quality assurance teams: Enables consistent inspection criteria for cork quality, fit, and compliance.
- Supply chain managers: Ensures traceability and correct labeling throughout storage and distribution.
- Regulatory bodies: Offers a benchmark for national wine regulations and international trade requirements involving cork stoppers and sparkling wine bottling.
The proper selection and application of cork stoppers as specified in ISO 4710:2000 is vital for maintaining the integrity, taste, and effervescence characteristic of sparkling and gasified wines.
Related Standards
- ISO 633: Cork - Vocabulary: Defines terminology relevant to cork material and products, referenced for clarity in ISO 4710.
- OIV Code for Oenological Practices: Offers guidelines and classifications for sparkling and gasified wines.
- Various national and international regulations regarding materials in contact with food and wine bottles.
ISO 4710:2000 supports quality assurance and global harmonization in wine packaging, making it essential for manufacturers, bottlers, and industry stakeholders aiming for excellence in sparkling wine production.
Open preview (PDF)Cork — Cylindrical stoppers for sparkling wines and gasified wines — Characteristics
