The cork is gone! What do I do if it falls into the wine?

First things first: Don’t panic and don’t throw the wine away!

A cork falling into your wine doesn’t mean the wine is ruined, toxic, or dangerous. It may be annoying in the glass or slightly affect the aroma, but the actual “damage” is often minimal to none—especially if you act properly.

Is It Dangerous If I Drank Cork?

No, it is not dangerous if you accidentally swallowed a small piece of cork. Natural cork is made from the bark of the cork oak tree and is non-toxic and not harmful to health. Your body will either digest it without issue or eliminate it naturally.

So, if you noticed a few cork bits in your mouth or glass and accidentally consumed some—no worries. It might be unpleasant, but it’s not dangerous.

However, if you're allergic to cork dust (extremely rare), or if you feel discomfort, consult a medical professional just to be safe.

Step-by-Step: What to Do When Cork Falls in Wine

1. Determine if it’s just a broken cork or if the wine is "corked"

• If the cork was just brittle or crumbled due to dryness or poor opening technique, your wine is likely perfectly fine.

• If the wine smells musty (like mold, wet cardboard, or a damp basement), it might be "corked" due to TCA contamination. In that case, the wine may have an off taste, though it’s still safe to drink—just less enjoyable.

2. Filter the wine into a clean carafe
Use a fine strainer, a cheesecloth, or even a coffee filter to remove any cork particles. This will leave your wine clear and pleasant to serve.

3. Serve and enjoy as usual
If the aroma and taste are unaffected, carry on as if nothing happened.

Extra Tips: How to Prevent It Next Time

• Use a proper corkscrew: A two-step waiter’s corkscrew or a professional opener reduces the chance of tearing the cork.

• Check the cork’s condition: If it looks dry or fragile, consider using an Ah-So (two-prong opener) – ideal for older bottles.

• Store wine properly: Bottles stored upright for too long may dry out the cork, making it more likely to break during opening.

Old Bottle? Don’t Be Alarmed

Older wines often have delicate or crumbly corks—but that doesn’t mean they’re spoiled. Just open them carefully, strain the contents, and enjoy. These wines might offer a one-of-a-kind tasting experience.

✅ Final Word

Did the cork fall in or break apart? Don’t worry. Your wine is most likely fine, and even if you swallowed a small piece, it won’t harm you.

Wine is meant to be enjoyed—not feared. So take a breath, grab a filter, fix the situation, and raise your glass. Cheers!

⚠️ Disclaimer (for legal clarity):

The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or health advice. If you experience discomfort or have specific allergies or conditions, please consult your doctor. Our team strives to offer reliable guidance, but we are not liable for actions taken based on this content.