Synthetic corks and screwcaps are set to replace the natural corks for DOC and DOCG wines, following an approval by Italian authorities over its usage.
With the onset of the new rule, Synthetic cork producer Nomacorc has already made plans to minimize the usage of natural corks in DOC and DOCG wines.
Nomacorc CEO Lars von Kantzow told Decanter.com that they have effectively been blocked from 30% of the market.
"It's not like winemakers are waiting in line for the day they can buy Nomacorc. Although, in some cases, this is the case. Some will still use natural cork, but at least now we can go to them. Before, it wasn't worth our while," Kantzow added.
Likewise, many other producers like Caldirola, producer of Barbera D'Asti, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo and Chianti, are planning to use synthetic closures for their wines.
However, Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico marketing manager Silvia Fiorentini told the website that individual denominations still have the final say on closures.
"Certainly it will not be possible to use alternative corks or screwcaps without a formal change of our production code," Fiorentini added.
