Drinking a great bottle of wine, whether it’s a red, white, or a specialized variant like rose wine or dessert wine, is an enjoyable experience that no one wants to end. But if you can’t enjoy the entire bottle in one sitting, there are several ways to extend the life of your open bottle of wine. Read on to learn how long different types of wine last after being opened, and what you can do to extend the life of your wine.
What causes wine to age?
When wine is exposed to too much oxygen it causes an aging process called oxidation. Oxidation leads to the formation of acetic acid, altering the wine’s flavor and aroma.
When this occurs, red wine loses its richness, white wine can turn yellow or brown, and sparkling wine loses its carbonation. Generally, when a wine has gone too bad, the wine tastes flat and bland. Most wines are referred to as oxidized after they’ve been open and left out for too long, but they can become oxidized during winemaking and bottling, too.
How long can an open bottle of wine last?
On average, an open wine bottle can last from 2 days to 2 weeks depending upon several factors like the type of wine it is, its alcohol content, and exactly how much oxygen it is exposed to. Let’s review different types of wine and how long they can last.
How long does red wine last after opening?
Red wine lasts for 3-5 days after being opened. The more tannins a red wine has, the longer it will stay good after opening. A rich red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Petit Shiraz will last longer than a wine lower in tannins like Pinot Noir.
How should I store an open bottle of red wine?
If you’re planning to drink the remaining bottle of red wine within 24 hours, you can seal the bottle with a stopper or re-insert the cork into the bottle and store it in a dark place at room temperature. Then, when you’re ready to drink it again, unseal the bottle and pour yourself a glass.
If you’re going to wait a few days to drink the remaining red wine, seal it up well and store the bottle in the refrigerator, which can add 1-2 days to the wine’s life.
How long does white wine last after opening?
White wine lasts an average of 3-5 days after being opened. Varieties such as Riesling, rose wine, and Sauvignon Blanc can last 5-7 days, while full-bodied white wines like Chardonnay can last 3-5 days.
How should I store an open bottle of white wine?
To store an open bottle of white wine, use a stopper or re-insert the cork into the bottle. Always store white wine in the refrigerator after it’s opened, even if you’re planning to drink it within the next 24 hours.
How long does sparkling wine last after opening?
Sparkling wine like champagne and prosecco lasts 1-2 days after being opened due to carbonation. While you can technically drink sparkling wine that’s been opened longer than that, it will likely have lost its bubbly fizz after 24 hours and may not be enjoyable. We recommend finishing sparkling wine no later than the next day after opening.
Champagne Stoppers
It’s important to re-seal Champagne quickly after it’s been opened and poured. Most sparkling wines come with a cork that cannot be re-inserted after being opened. We recommend using a <a href="sparkling wine stopper to seal your sparkling wine.
Does fortified wine like sherry last longer than regular red wine?
Fortified wines like sherry and Port can last longer than standard red wines, thanks to their higher alcohol content. They have a shelf life of 6-10 days after being opened.
Should I refrigerate my wine after opening it?
White wine, dessert wine, and sparkling wines like champagne and prosecco should always be refrigerated after opening. If you’ll be enjoying your red wine or sherry again within 24 hours, you can store it on the counter if you prefer; otherwise, store it in the refrigerator. Refrigerating wine after it’s been opened slows the oxidation process and can add an extra day or two to your wine’s life.
Other wine storage tips
- Always store your open wine standing up to lower the amount of wine exposed to oxygen. If you’re storing unopened wine, it’s best to consult specific guidelines based on the type of wine. When you lay an open bottle of wine down, it allows air to reach a greater surface of the wine.
- Move your leftover wine to a smaller bottle. Storing leftover wine in a smaller bottle lowers the amount of oxygen that comes in contact with the wine and keeps your wine fresh, longer.
- If you don’t have a stopper or a cork to re-insert, wrap plastic wrap over the opening and seal it with a rubber band to create a tight seal. It’s better than nothing.
