Q&A: Wine, Food, Beer, Or Spirits Questions
mold on my labels
I am trying to sell some old bottles of wine. The only problem is there are a few mold spots on the labels due to the storage cellar. Any suggestions on what I can use to get these spots out with out damaging the integrity of the label for selling?!
Answer From Expert Roger C. Bohmrich, MW
This is very difficult to answer without seeing the affected bottles. I would say it depends on how extensive the mold spots are and if they are just on the surface or have penetrated the label. Very light mold can be wiped off gently with a clean damp cloth; somewhat more mold could possibly be absorbed by pressing carefully and lightly with a paper towel. If the mold is deep, you are unlikely to be able to remove it without tearing away the label. All of this is guesswork since I haven't seen the bottles, so use your own judgement. I have many older bottles with extensive mold in my own cellar, but the enjoyment of my guests is not diminished when the wine is poured into their glasses! Perhaps drinking rather than selling the wine is your best solution...
About The Expert
Roger explains his approach to the Q&A -
"My goal is to provide as much reliable, practical information as I can in a brief answer. I try to choose my words carefully to be as accurate and precise as possible in the space allowed. I always do my best to be fair, treat the question with respect, and offer credible, informed commentary. By all means, ask a follow-up question if you feel a key issue has not been addressed. I also encourage you to look over past questions as you may find the answer to yours."
Bio:
Roger has enjoyed a lengthy career in the wine trade, and he last served as a senior executive with a major national importer. In 2006, he launched Millesima USA, a retail entity affiliated with Europe's leading fine wine mail order company. Roger became one of America's first Masters of Wine in 1993, and he has been very active as an educator and speaker at wine festivals and conferences. He hosts a community television program entitled "Wine's Simple Pleasures," and is currently working on a book of original recipes and wine pairing solutions.
