Watch out for vinegary smell when checking red wine

Diners who are offered a sample of a wine before it is fully poured should look out for a vinegary smell, according to one source.

Responding to a reader query, the Daily Telegraph urged drinkers to be aware of such a scent in red wine when a waiter pours out the tipple.

"If the bottle hasn't been stored correctly, the wine could become oxidised. It will have a pungent smell like vinegar," noted the newspaper.

The publication went on to say that there may also be a cardboard-like aroma, which suggests the wine has corked.

It explained that this is when a cork becomes wet during production or if mould within the stopper reaches the tipple.

Drinkers can feel free to inspect the scent of the San Felice Chianti Classico DOCG 2006, but they can be confident that all they will be met with is the smell of a beautifully made red from Italy.