Cork is an impermeable buoyant material. It is the phellem layer of bark tissue which is harvested for commercial use primarily from Quercus suber (the cork oak), which is native to southwest Europe and northwest Africa. Cork is composed of suberin, a hydrophobic substance.

Wine corks are a stopper used to seal wine bottles. They are typically made from cork (bark of the cork oak), though synthetic materials can be used.

Its versatility is undoubtedly a key factor contributing to its extensive usage in different domains. Cork stands as a natural resource of immense value for Portugal, not only economically but also environmentally and culturally. Its sustainable production and versatility make it a unique material admired worldwide.

They look like wood, but their spongy feel makes them seem a little different than wood. The fact is that natural corks are produced from the bark of the cork oak, Quercus suber. And this bark is stripped right off the live tree, in fact several times during the life of the tree.