As an experienced sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that a frozen bottle of wine has the potential to burst. Allow me to explain why this is the case.
When a liquid freezes, it expands in volume. This expansion is due to the formation of ice crystals within the liquid. Unlike other substances, water expands when it freezes, which can cause significant pressure build-up within a sealed container such as a glass bottle.
Glass bottles are strong, but they do have their limits. The pressure exerted by the expanding frozen liquid can exceed the structural integrity of the bottle, leading to cracks or even an explosion. This is particularly true if the bottle is tightly sealed with a cork or screw cap, as it restricts the space available for the expanded liquid to occupy.
I recall a situation where I had accidentally left a bottle of wine in the freezer for too long. As I opened the freezer door, I heard a loud pop followed by the sound of breaking glass. To my dismay, the frozen bottle had indeed burst, leaving behind a mess of shattered glass and wine.
It's important to note that not all frozen bottles will burst. The likelihood of this happening depends on various factors such as the temperature to which the bottle was exposed, the type of wine, and the level of liquid in the bottle. For instance, a bottle with less liquid will have more space for expansion and may be less prone to bursting compared to a full bottle.
To mitigate the risk of a frozen bottle bursting, it is crucial to take precautions. Firstly, never intentionally freeze a bottle of wine, as it can alter the wine's taste and texture. If, however, a bottle accidentally freezes, it is best to thaw it slowly in a cool place, such as a refrigerator. This gradual thawing allows the ice to melt without causing sudden pressure changes that could lead to a burst bottle.
A frozen bottle of wine can indeed burst due to the expansion of the liquid when it freezes. The pressure build-up within the sealed glass bottle can exceed its limits, causing cracks or an explosion. Thawing the bottle slowly is the best approach to minimize the risk of bursting.