To keep a cork in good condition, focus on proper storage conditions that maintain its hydration.
Based on storage best practices, a cork remains hydrated and in good condition when a wine bottle is properly stored.
Here are the key conditions, directly supported by the provided reference:
- Horizontal Storage: The bottle should be stored horizontally.
- Liquid Contact: Ensure the liquid (wine) is in contact with the inner surface of the cork.
- Sufficient Humidity: The storage space should have enough humidity.
Why These Conditions Matter
These storage practices work together to prevent the cork from drying out.
- Hydration: Contact with the liquid and sufficient surrounding humidity keeps the cork moist.
- Flexibility & Structure: As stated in the reference, a hydrated cork maintains its flexibility and structure. This is crucial because a flexible, well-structured cork forms a tight seal, preventing air from entering the bottle and protecting the wine from oxidation.
By ensuring these simple yet vital storage conditions, you help preserve the integrity of the cork, which in turn helps preserve the quality of the wine it seals.
