There are a few factors that can contribute to a wine developing a “wet dog” or wet fur aroma. Let’s take a closer look at what causes this off-putting smell in wines.
1. Microbial Spoilage
One of the main reasons why a wine may develop a wet dog or wet fur aroma is due to microbial spoilage. This can happen during the winemaking process or even after the wine has been bottled. Here are a few ways in which microbial spoilage can occur:
- Presence of Brettanomyces yeast: Brettanomyces is a type of yeast that can produce off-putting aromas like wet dog or wet fur. It can thrive in environments where there is low sulfur dioxide levels, high pH, and warm temperatures.
- Acetic acid bacteria: Acetic acid bacteria can produce acetic acid, which can give the wine a vinegar-like smell. When combined with other compounds, it can contribute to the wet dog aroma.
2. Oxygen Exposure
Exposure to oxygen can also cause a wine to develop off-putting aromas, including wet dog or wet fur. Oxygen can interact with the compounds in the wine and create volatile sulfur compounds that produce these unpleasant smells. This can happen during the winemaking process or if a wine is not properly sealed after bottling.
3. Faulty Corks
If a wine bottle is sealed with a faulty cork, it can allow air to seep into the bottle and oxidize the wine. This can lead to the development of off-putting aromas like wet dog or wet fur. It’s essential for winemakers to use high-quality corks to prevent this from happening.
4. Poor Sanitation Practices
Poor sanitation practices during the winemaking process can also contribute to the development of off-putting aromas in wine. If equipment is not properly cleaned and sanitized, it can introduce unwanted microbes into the wine, leading to microbial spoilage and the production of undesirable aromas like wet dog or wet fur.
5. Grape Quality
The quality of the grapes used in winemaking can also play a role in the development of off-putting aromas in wine. If grapes are not properly ripened or if they are affected by mold or mildew, it can impact the overall flavor and aroma of the wine. This can lead to the development of aromas like wet dog or wet fur.
6. Aging Process
The way a wine is aged can also impact its aroma profile. If a wine is aged in barrels that have not been properly cleaned or if the aging process is not closely monitored, it can lead to the development of off-putting aromas in the wine. This can include aromas like wet dog or wet fur.
7. Bottle Ageing
As wine ages in the bottle, chemical reactions continue to occur that can change its aroma profile. If a wine is stored in improper conditions or for too long, it can develop off-putting aromas like wet dog or wet fur. It’s essential for wine collectors to store their bottles in a cool, dark, and stable environment to prevent this from happening.
8. Reduction in Sulfur Dioxide
Sulfur dioxide is commonly used in winemaking as a preservative to prevent microbial spoilage and oxidation. If there is a reduction in sulfur dioxide levels in the wine, it can leave the wine more susceptible to microbial spoilage, leading to the development of off-putting aromas like wet dog or wet fur.
9. Faulty Fermentation
If fermentation is not properly controlled during the winemaking process, it can lead to the development of off-flavors and aromas in the wine. This can include aromas like wet dog or wet fur. It’s crucial for winemakers to closely monitor and control the fermentation process to ensure the quality of the final product.
10. Contamination
Contamination from external sources can also contribute to the development of off-putting aromas in wine. This can happen if the wine comes into contact with tainted equipment, barrels, or even packaging materials. Contamination can introduce unwanted microbes or chemicals into the wine, leading to the production of undesirable aromas like wet dog or wet fur.