As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have encountered my fair share of spoiled wines over the years. The smell of spoiled wine can be quite distinct and is often a strong indicator that something has gone wrong during the winemaking process. One of the most common signs of bad wine is a smell that resembles a barnyard, sweaty horse, or even manure.
This particular aroma is often attributed to the presence of Brettanomyces, affectionately known as “Brett” among sommeliers. Brettanomyces is a bacteria that can be present in small doses without necessarily ruining the wine, but when left unchecked, it can completely transform the character of the wine, making it undrinkable. The smell of Brett can be quite off-putting and is often described as funky or earthy.
Another indication of spoiled wine is a smell reminiscent of Band-Aids. This can be a sign of a compound called 2,4,6-trichloroanisole (TCA), which is formed when certain types of fungi come into contact with chlorine compounds used in the winemaking process. TCA is a notorious wine fault and can completely ruin the aroma and flavor of the wine.
In addition to these specific smells, spoiled wine can also have a general “off” odor that is hard to pinpoint but is definitely unpleasant. It may have a musty or moldy smell, indicating the presence of mold or mildew in the wine. It could also have a vinegar-like aroma, suggesting that the wine has undergone a process called acetic acid fermentation, where the alcohol is oxidized and converted into vinegar.
It's important to note that not all spoiled wines will have the same smell or exhibit these specific characteristics. Wine is a delicate and complex beverage, and there are many factors that can contribute to its spoilage. Oxidation, excessive heat, poor storage conditions, and even faulty winemaking techniques can all lead to a wine becoming spoiled.
In my experience, encountering a spoiled wine can be quite disappointing, especially if it's a bottle that you were looking forward to enjoying. It's always a good idea to trust your senses and rely on your own judgment when it comes to evaluating the quality of a wine. If something smells off or unpleasant, it's best to err on the side of caution and avoid drinking it.
So, in summary, spoiled wine can have a range of unpleasant smells, from barnyard and sweaty horse to Band-Aids and manure. These aromas are often indicative of specific wine faults such as Brettanomyces or TCA. However, spoiled wine can also have a general “off” odor that is hard to pinpoint but definitely unappealing. It's always best to trust your senses and avoid drinking a wine that smells spoiled.
