For most wine enthusiasts, uncorking a bottle of wine is a set ritual. In the past, natural cork was almost exclusively used. This material provides a reliable seal, but also supplies the wine with exactly the right amount of oxygen during long storage periods. However on the negative side, the wine can become "corked", an undesirable taste caused by a fungal infection in the cork. Alternatives have now been developed that are being used more and more, even for high-quality wines. Plastic corks in particular are gaining in popularity - especially for wines that do not have to be stored for a long time. Due to ease of opening, screw tops are very popular and are viewed as being totally neutral-tasting. Metal tops are rarely used, while an innovative glass closure can be found more often. Is one particular closure the right one? No - it all depends on taste.