Cork and seal failure are inherent risks associated with bottled spirits. While these issues are more commonly encountered with older and pre-owned bottles, they can also occur in modern, factory-sealed products.
Cork is a natural material and may contain irregularities, air pockets or weaknesses that can affect its integrity over time. As corks age, they may dry out, shrink, become brittle or otherwise deteriorate, increasing the risk of leakage, evaporation and breakage.
To help preserve the condition of the closure, we strongly recommend storing all spirit bottles upright. Unlike wine, prolonged contact between high-strength alcohol and the cork may cause deterioration and increase the risk of failure.
When opening any bottle fitted with a cork stopper, there is always a risk that the cork may break, crumble or otherwise fail, regardless of how carefully the bottle is opened. This risk is particularly pronounced with older bottles. We therefore recommend keeping suitable replacement corks available where appropriate.
The condition and integrity of a cork or seal cannot be fully assessed without opening the bottle. Accordingly, Whisky-Online Ltd cannot guarantee the future performance of any cork, seal or closure. The age of a bottle should not be taken as an indication of the condition of its cork or seal, as deterioration can occur regardless of age, provenance or storage history.
Whisky-Online Ltd accepts no liability for:
- Cork failure, seal failure or closure failure.
- Leakage, evaporation, ullage changes or loss of liquid occurring before, during or after transit.
- Corks breaking, crumbling or otherwise failing during the opening of a bottle.
- Any damage, loss or reduction in value resulting from cork, seal or closure failure.
By purchasing bottled spirits from Whisky-Online Ltd, you acknowledge and accept these inherent risks.
For further information regarding corks, seals and bottle closures, please refer to our dedicated blog articles available on our website.
If you have any questions regarding a particular bottle, please contact us prior to purchase at info@whisky-online.com and we will be happy to assist.
