In case you needed to add to your wine credentials, APCOR, a consortium representing the cork industry, has just launched its Cork Certification Course. As noted in their press release, APCOR is looking to improve its image with consumers and update them with regard to recent changes in technology.

The cork industry has really suffered lately, as faulty corks have continually been blamed for much, if not all, of the problems encountered with trichloroanisol (TCA). Wine contaminated with TCA gives off a musty odor and is considered faulty.  As noted previously, reports of cork failure have been as high as 12%, depending upon to whom you speak.

In an effort to assure consumers that cork still remains the single best wine stopper, APCOR has launched a series of advertisements and has enlisted Lisa Airey of the Society of Wine Educators to serve as a spokesperson. The new website and cork certification appear to be another component of their marketing efforts.

The site itself is fairly straightforward, highlighting the history of cork as well as recent advances in the manufacture of wine corks. The text lauds the naturalness of cork and attempts to tug at heartstrings in relating the ecological benefits of cork, namely serving as a habitat for the nearly extinct Iberian lynx, among other fauna.

To become certified, one must complete a set of twenty-five multiple choice questions, with a goal of scoring 80% or better. After reading through the website, I successfully scored a 96%, earning my new title as a Certified Cork Expert. Now, all I need is a larger business card to fit all of my credentials.