Corked wine is a common problem that occurs when the cork in a wine bottle becomes contaminated, resulting in an unpleasant smell and taste in the wine. In this article, we will explore what exactly corked wine tastes like, how to identify it, and what causes it to happen.
Understanding Corked Wine
Corked wine is a wine that has become contaminated with a chemical compound called TCA, which results in the wine smelling and tasting like damp cardboard or wet newspaper. This contamination can occur when natural cork is used to seal the wine bottle, and the cork has been infected with TCA. The contamination can also occur during the winemaking process, as TCA can be present in the air or on surfaces in the winery.
The Science of Corked Wine
TCA, or 2,4,6-trichloroanisole, is a chemical compound that is formed when fungi that naturally occur in cork come in contact with chlorinated compounds, such as bleach, that are used to sanitize winemaking equipment. TCA can also form when chlorine is used to sanitize wooden barrels used in the winemaking process. TCA is highly volatile and can be detected by the human nose in very low concentrations, as low as a few parts per trillion.
The Impact of Corked Wine
Corked wine can have a significant impact on the wine’s flavor, aroma, and overall quality. The wine may have less fruitiness, less complexity, and less overall character. The wine may also have a musty or moldy smell that can be off-putting. In some cases, the wine may be undrinkable.
How to Detect Corked Wine
The easiest way to detect corked wine is through the aroma. If the wine smells like wet cardboard or damp newspaper, it is likely corked. However, the smell of corked wine can be subtle and may not be immediately noticeable. In some cases, the wine may still be drinkable, but it will have lost some of its complexity and character.
Other Ways to Detect Corked Wine
If you suspect that a wine may be corked, there are a few other ways to confirm your suspicion. One way is to taste the wine. If the wine tastes musty, moldy, or lacks fruitiness, it may be corked. Another way is to visually inspect the cork. If the cork is discolored, moldy, or has a musty smell, it is likely that the wine is corked.
The Importance of Proper Storage
Proper storage can help prevent corked wine. Wine should be stored in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature and humidity level. Wine should also be stored on its side to keep the cork moist and prevent it from drying out. If the cork dries out, it can become more susceptible to TCA contamination.
The Impact of Corked Wine on the Wine Industry
Corked wine is a significant problem in the wine industry. It is estimated that up to 10% of wine bottles are affected by cork taint. This contamination can result in significant financial losses for wineries and wine producers. It can also damage the reputation of the wine industry as a whole.
The Rise of Alternative Closures
In recent years, wineries and wine producers have been experimenting with alternative closures, such as synthetic corks, screw caps, and glass stoppers. These closures are less susceptible to TCA contamination and can help prevent corked wine. However, traditionalists argue that natural cork is an essential part of the winemaking process and that alternative closures can impact the aging potential and overall character of the wine.
FAQs – What does corked wine taste like?
What does it mean when a wine is corked?
When a wine is corked, it means that it has been contaminated with a chemical compound called TCA (2,4,6-Trichloroanisole), which is caused by a natural fungus that can grow in cork bark. This can make the wine smell and taste musty and unpleasant, and it can also mute its flavors and aromas.
How can I tell if a wine is corked?
The most common way to detect corked wine is by its smell. If it has a damp, moldy, or musty aroma, it is likely to be corked. Another way to tell is by its taste, which can be bitter or sour, with a lack of fruitiness and astringency. The wine may also be flat or lack complexity and depth.
If a wine is corked, is it still safe to drink?
Yes, corked wine is still safe to drink, even though it may not taste very good. However, if the wine has been exposed to oxygen for too long, it might develop further off-flavors or aromas that can make the wine undrinkable.
Can corked wine be fixed?
Unfortunately, there is no way to fix corked wine once it has been contaminated with TCA. The best thing to do is to return the bottle to the store where you purchased it or to the restaurant where you ordered it and request a new bottle or a refund.
Is corked wine a common problem?
Cork taint affects an estimated 5-10% of all wines that are sealed with natural cork. This has led many wineries to switch to alternative closures like screw-caps and synthetic corks, which are less susceptible to cork taint. However, natural cork remains the traditional and most popular closure for premium wines.