How does wine spoil?

Wine can spoil in a number of ways, the most common of which are oxidation, bacterial spoilage, and heat damage.

Oxidation occurs when wine comes into contact with oxygen. This can happen when the wine is exposed to air through a faulty cork or other seal, or if the wine is not properly stored in a cool, dark place. Oxidation can cause the wine to lose its color, flavor, and aroma, and it can also make the wine bitter or vinegary.

Bacterial spoilage occurs when bacteria, such as acetic acid bacteria or lactic acid bacteria, get into the wine and start to ferment it. This can cause the wine to become cloudy, sour, or oily, and it can also change the color and flavor of the wine.

Heat damage occurs when wine is exposed to excessive heat. This can happen if the wine is stored in a hot environment, such as a car trunk or an attic, or if the wine is heated for too long during cooking. Heat damage can cause the wine to lose its color, flavor, and aroma, and it can also make the wine bitter or astringent.

To prevent wine from spoiling, it is important to store it in a cool, dark place, away from sources of heat. Wine should also be stored in a sealed container, such as a glass bottle with a cork or screw cap.