For a special occassion you open a 20yearold bottle of red w

For a special occassion you open a 20-year-old bottle of red wine. You are excited. But after the first sip you are shocked: the wine tastes like vinegar. Is this possible? If yes or no, give a detailed explanation!

Solution

Oxygen is responsible for the change in smell and taste of wine. The more a wine comes in contact with oxygen, the more it degrades, which ultimately causes the wine to become muted and dull.

All wine closures are not airtight, and every once in a while, oxygen can slowly seep in. if the wine is not stored correctly or if there is a flaw in the closure, oxidation can occur.

Oxidized wine has no flavors and, depending on how long the wine has been in contact with the oxygen, it may even taste like vinegar.