What can extended refrigeration do to a wine's cork?

Extended refrigeration can cause the cork material in wine bottles to harden and lose its elasticity over time. This phenomenon occurs due to the consistent low temperatures and the potential for humidity changes in refrigeration environments. A cork's primary function is to seal the bottle and prevent air from entering, which helps in maintaining the wine's quality. However, when the cork hardens, it may no longer create an effective seal, allowing oxygen to infiltrate the bottle. This infiltration can lead to oxidation, ultimately affecting the flavor and integrity of the wine.

In contrast, options suggesting expansion or improved sealing properties do not align with the impact of long-term refrigeration. Additionally, flexibility in corks generally reduces with prolonged exposure to cold conditions, reinforcing why the loss of elasticity is a critical concern in wine preservation under refrigeration.