How To Tell If Wine Has Gone Bad

Ever been in a situation where you opened a bottle of wine, took a sip, and something just didn't taste right? You probably wondered if the wine has gone bad. Well, you're not alone! In this ultimate guide, we will dive into the world of wine and teach you how to identify if your wine has gone bad, what causes it to spoil, and how to prevent it. So, whether you're a sommelier or someone who just enjoys a glass of wine after a long day, this article is for you!

Common signs of a spoiled wine

1. Unpleasant smell

The first sign that something may be wrong with your wine is its aroma. If you notice a musty or moldy smell, that could be a sign of cork taint, which is caused by a chemical compound called TCA (2,4,6-Trichloroanisole). This occurs when the cork gets contaminated during the manufacturing process or due to improper storage conditions.

2. Off colors

Visual cues can also hint at a wine's condition. Red wines should be a bright ruby or deep purple color, while white wines should be clear, with a light straw or golden hue. If your red wine appears brownish or your white wine has turned into a dark, amber color, it could indicate oxidation or spoilage.

3. Unpleasant taste

Sometimes the taste of the wine will make it obvious if it has gone off. Flavors you might encounter include vinegar, caused by excessive acetic acid, or a sherry-like taste, indicating oxidation.

4. Bubbles in still wine

If you notice bubbles in your wine when it's not supposed to be a sparkling variety, that could be a sign of secondary fermentation, meaning bacteria has continued to consume the sugar in the wine after bottling.

What causes wine to go bad?

1. Oxidation

Oxidation happens when wine is exposed to air. This can occur during the bottling process, or if the wine is not properly stored or sealed. Even small amounts of oxygen can compromise the quality and taste of the wine over time.

2. Heat and light exposure

Exposure to heat and direct sunlight can cause the wine to spoil. High temperatures can cause the wine to expand, leading to leakage or the cork being pushed out slightly, allowing air to enter the bottle and spoil the wine.

3. Improper storage

Storing bottles in a damp or humid environment can lead to mold growth on the cork, which can potentially contaminate the wine. Storing wine upright for extended periods can also result in the cork drying out and shrinking, allowing air to enter and spoil the wine.

4. Wine faults

Wine faults are imperfections in the wine that can result from the winemaking process or contamination from external factors. Examples of wine faults include cork taint, volatile acidity, and bacterial contamination.

How To Tell If Wine Has Gone Bad Example:

Imagine you've just come home from a long day and decided to relax with a glass of your favorite red wine. You pour it into your glass, and as you bring it up to your nose, you notice a musty, wet cardboard smell. You take a sip, and it tastes off, leaving a vinegar-like taste in your mouth. Unfortunately, your wine has gone bad due to cork taint. Instead of drinking it, you'll need to dispose of the spoiled wine and grab a fresh bottle to enjoy for the evening.

Now that you're equipped with the knowledge to identify when a wine has gone bad, you can have a better wine-drinking experience and more confidently serve wine to your friends and family. Don't forget to also store your wine properly, away from heat and light, to prevent spoilage. If you find this guide helpful, be sure to share it with your fellow wine enthusiasts and explore other great content on Black Wine Club! Cheers and happy sipping!