The shelf life of an opened bottle of wine can vary depending on several factors such as the type of wine, storage conditions, and personal preferences. In general, most wines are best consumed within 2-4 days after opening in order to fully enjoy their flavours and aromas. However, some wines can last longer if properly stored.
Fortified wines like Port, Madeira, and Sherry can last several weeks or even months after opening due to their higher alcohol content. Red wines typically last longer than white or rosé wines because they generally have more tannins and antioxidants, which help preserve them.
To maximize the shelf life of an opened bottle of wine, it’s important to store it properly. Here are a few guidelines:
- Recork the bottle: After opening, reseal the bottle with its original cork or use a wine stopper to minimize exposure to air.
- Store in a cool and dark place: Keep the opened bottle away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and fluctuations in temperature. Ideally, store it in a refrigerator, as lower temperatures slow down the oxidation process.
- Use a wine preserver: Consider using a wine preserver, such as a vacuum pump or inert gas spray, to remove air from the bottle and create a protective barrier. These tools can help extend the wine’s freshness.
- One of my go-to hacks is always having a couple of smaller bottles handy (500ml or 250ml – depending on how much wine is leftover) in which I can pour the rest of the wine from the original bottle. Since it is air we’re looking to avoid, using a bottle which you can fill as much as possible, to the brim at best, will help keep a wine fresher longer.
It’s important to note that the quality and taste of any wine will deteriorate over time once the bottle is opened. If the wine starts to develop an unpleasant smell, taste, or appearance, it’s a sign that it has gone bad and should be discarded.