Corked

Describing a wine that has been tainted by trichloroanisole (TCA), a chemical compound that often develops in corks, resulting in an unpleasant musty, moldy, or damp smell and flavor. The affected wine becomes undrinkable, losing its desirable characteristics and potentially exhibiting a stale or off-putting aroma. The degree of 'corked-ness' can vary, from a faint mustiness to a completely overpowering stench and taste. The condition is a common, albeit frustrating, fault found in bottled wines, especially those sealed with natural corks. While often used for wine, 'corked' can also describe other situations and items which are similarly rendered flawed or unpleasant in scent or taste, like food.

Corked meaning with examples

• The sommelier immediately recognized the wine was corked after the first sniff, its aroma betraying a distinct wet cardboard smell. He promptly replaced the bottle, apologizing to the guests for the unfortunate defect. The wine's once-promising bouquet had been completely ruined by the faulty cork, rendering it undrinkable and a waste of the expensive vintage.
• After opening the bottle, Sarah noticed a strong, musty odor emanating from the wine. Despite her initial excitement, she knew immediately the bottle was corked. The disappointing aroma, devoid of the expected fruity notes, signaled that the expensive purchase was a failure, and she wouldn't enjoy it with her dinner.
• Despite its exquisite presentation, the wine turned out to be hopelessly corked. Its unpleasant aroma quickly overwhelmed the anticipated notes of cherry and oak. Even after aerating it, the off-putting, moldy flavor remained, ultimately spoiling the dinner party. They ended up sending the wine back and switching to another.
• The vintage wine auction attendees noticed the disappointment in the auctioneer's expression as he sampled the first bottle, knowing it to be corked. This was disappointing, considering the bottles historical background and monetary value. The aroma of mold quickly confirmed the suspicion; the costly purchase proved to be a great letdown.