The CQC is sponsoring ongoing research into the relationships between TCA, cork and bottled wine.  The following research has been carried out by ETS Laboratories over the past two years.  It involves the use of chemical tests to quantify TCA content in individual corks and in bale populations.  

The results have shown several interesting characteristics of TCA in cork soaks.  It  has also demonstrated a direct relationship between the level of TCA found in a cork soak and TCA that is transmitted to bottled wine.  

Testing has proven to be more quick, sensitive and accurate than previous analysis available to the industry. The procedure offers an immediate improvement in cork quality control procedures involving screening manufactured corks. Furure value is seen in  other projects designed to eliminate TCA prior to the completion of cork manufacture.  
 
The chemical test is now being used by CQC member companies to supplement sensory analysis of incoming cork shipments. 

A Summary of Research Results and 
a list of Frequently Asked Questions are available 

Project Quercus Results 

In 1993 the European Cork Industry Federation (CELIEGE) in cooperation with the EEC undertook a detailed study of the cork industry. The project, titled “Quercus”, combined the efforts of nine laboratories in six countries.