Small Pieces of Cork in an Unopened Bottle???

[tapsjg]

I have an unopened bottle of Laphroaig 30 yr. and notice that there are small pieces of cork floating around inside. There isn't a lot, but it is noticeable. I'm pretty sure that it's cork, but may be some other sort of particulate. I have a few other bottles of the Laphroaig 30 that I purchased along with the one in question and there are no issues with any of those. I have never seen this before in an unopened bottle. Is this normal, or should I be worried about a loose cork adversely affecting the scotch, like it does with wine? I have always made sure to store the bottle upright and have kept it in a box down in my basement, so I'm pretty sure it's not a result of my storing it improperly. If anyone has any input I would greatly appreciate it.

[Jojo]

Yes, it is possible to have pieces of cork in your bottle - even in a bottle which has never been opened. How long ago did you purchase it and from whom? If you haven't had it that long, let the person know who sold it to you. You said it's a 30 yo, but when was it bottled? And to answer your question - yes, pieces of cork can affect the taste of the Scotch.