My wife and I opened a bottle (which was a gift) of Red Table Wine, Lost Vineyards, Portugal, (no date) the other day. We were not sure what to expect. We are red wine drinkers, normally, and were looking forward to trying a different kind of red. When we opened it and took an intial sip, after a minute or so of the bottle begin opened, and it tasted strong, but good. But within about 5 to 10 more minutes, the wine got dramaticly stronger smelling and tasting. Was wondering if this is normal, or if the wine is bad. (can wine even go bad?)

Thanks
Tim

First of all, yes, wine can go bad. Even if it's a top flight 1st growth, it won't last forever. As far as this wine becoming "stronger", it may have simply been "opening up": releasing it's esters and aldehydes and other chemicals which make wine what it is. It's not necassarily bad. It usually just is. In fact, it is generaly part of the natural prograssion of things. As the wine is exposed to air, chemical changes start immediately, and the change of temperature in the wine can aid this process. Regardless of the age of the wine or the type (grape(s), location, etc.)wines go through stages as they age and after they have been opened. Actually, I generally expect wines to practically fill a small room with their aromas when the bottle is opened or when the wine is being poured, however, sometimes wines simply need a little coaxing (decanting, time and/or temperature change) to open up. Think of it as part of the process of getting to know a new friend. They may be friendly and inviting from the start, or shy and reserved at first, but great rewards can often follow for those with a little patience.