How do you know if a bottle of wine is "corked"?

[Knurled99]

This is a bottle of 2000 Baron Phillipe de Rothschild Bordeaux.... I've had some of a different year before and it was ok. This time, however, there was some gunk between the cork and the foil and the cork was spongy. I can't tell if my mind's playing tricks on me but it tastes funky. Also... will the store take it back if it is corked?
Thanks for the input.. I would just throw it away, but I had a really shitty day at my shitty job and I sooo had my heart set on some vin.
Bradley

[yardwork]

1. If the cork was spongy and there was gunk on it take it back

Don't drink it. It might make you sick. Take it to the store and show them the gunky spongy ick on the cork and foil (if you still have it).

[4morewars]

2. Dose it taste like cork ?

You said it tastes funky, and i've read that it will taste like cork, although, I'm not sure what cork tastes like ! It sounds like it is off though, what with the spongy cork and the foul taste. I would try to get my money back, it's worth a shot. A reputable dealer should guarantee their product.

[JanMichael]

3. Yes, the store will take it back

the wine rep will reimburse them.