Is red wine bad if cork is stained?

Here's why:

* Red wine naturally stains: The color of the wine will stain the cork over time.

* It's not always a sign of oxidation: While oxidation can turn wine into vinegar, it's not the only reason for cork staining. The color can be simply due to the wine's pigments.

* Smell and taste are the best indicators: The smell of the wine is the most important indicator of quality. If it smells vinegary or off, the wine has likely oxidized. Taste it cautiously, a little bit at a time. If it tastes fine, you're good to go!

To be extra cautious:

* Inspect the cork: If the cork is very dark, crumbly, or smells musty, it's best to avoid the wine.

* Use a wine preservation system: If you are concerned about oxidation, using a wine preservation system like a vacuum stopper can help keep the wine fresh for longer.

Ultimately, the best way to tell if a wine is bad is to smell and taste it. Don't let a stained cork scare you away from a potentially delicious bottle! 🍷