EVENT
A Tasting Designed to Challenge Assumptions
The Without Filters event gathered wine professionals to explore how different closure systems influence wine evolution
June 2026
What happens when we set aside preconceived ideas and examine the facts with technical rigour?
This question inspired Without Filters, an event organised by J·Vigas together with Sys Oenological, the company’s representatives in the Ribera del Duero appellation, which brought together a select group of winemakers and wine professionals in Valladolid on 2 June.
More than a presentation, the event was conceived as an open forum for dialogue, where participants could share knowledge, exchange experiences and analyse the role different closure systems play in the evolution of wine.
Knowledge, research and reflection
The event began with a welcome address by Laura Fernández, Managing Director of Sys Oenological, who highlighted the importance of creating spaces for transparent dialogue between wineries and cork producers.
Raquel de Nadal, Sustainability and Innovation Director at J·Vigas, then delivered a masterclass focused on the behaviour of different closure systems. Drawing on scientific studies, specialised publications and research projects, she explored key topics such as oxygen transfer, the sensory evolution of wine in bottle and the environmental impact of the various alternatives available on the market.
Her presentation provided attendees with a technical, oenological and sustainability-focused perspective, offering valuable insights for informed decision-making.
Natural cork as an ally of wine
During the session, Raul Vigas, CEO of J·Vigas, shared his thoughts on the current challenges facing both the wine and cork industries. Quality, sustainability, innovation and commitment to the territory were among the themes of his presentation, which highlighted the strategic role of natural cork in the evolution of wine and the future of the sector.
A comparative tasting to observe without prejudice
The highlight of the event was a comparative tasting designed to encourage technical analysis and the exchange of views among participants.
Attendees tasted the same wine sealed with two different closure systems: a natural cork and a technical cork.
The main conclusion of the session was that decisions regarding closure systems should never be taken lightly.
Participants were able to see for themselves how replacing a natural cork with a technical closure can significantly influence the evolution of a wine and may even compromise its expression over time.
A conversation that continues
The event concluded with an aperitif, providing an opportunity to continue conversations in a relaxed atmosphere and encourage further exchanges between wineries and wine professionals.
Through initiatives such as Without Filters, J·Vigas reaffirms its commitment to research, transparency and continuous improvement. Because excellence does not arise from unquestioned certainties, but from the willingness to keep observing, learning and challenging assumptions.
Since 1887, this has also been our way of understanding cork.