
30 million years
in the makingThe next time you open a bottle of wine and twist out the cork, take a moment to appreciate one of the world's most unique species, over 30 million years in the making.

Brilliant engineering
Cork has been in use for centuries because of its brilliant engineering and durable characteristics. Evidence of its use has been found in ancient Egypt, China, Babylon and Persia.

Natural Treasure
The cork oak tree has survived through
many ice ages, but it has always
flourished in the hot coastal regions
of Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Morocco,
Algeria and Tunisia the cork oak tree is a
natural treasure to the people of Portugal.
They began using conservation legislation
for these precious forests in 1209, only a
few decades after the country formed.

Portugal
Today, Portugal is the world's largest producer and exporter of cork,
supplying more than half of the annual global production level of 300
thousand tones. In recent years, cork’s properties have inspired the
creation of new products including flooring, insulation, furniture,
clothing and more.